Ethiopia has achieved a significant milestone as its Minister of Transport and Logistics, Alemu Sime, has been appointed as a board member of the prestigious United Nations Road Safety Fund (UNRSF). This appointment highlights Ethiopia’s growing reputation as a leader in road safety initiatives on the African continent.
The United Nations Road Safety Fund (UNRSF), established in April 2018, works globally to support projects aimed at reducing road accidents and improving safety for all road users. By joining the board, Alemu Sime will have the opportunity to influence global road safety policies and help shape impactful strategies aimed at saving lives worldwide.
Why Ethiopia Was Recognized
The UNRSF’s letter to Alemu Sime praised Ethiopia for its efforts in making roads safer across the country. Some of the key accomplishments noted include:
- National Road Safety Strategy: Ethiopia has implemented a comprehensive strategy that includes raising awareness and promoting safer road practices across the country.
- Road Safety Education in Schools: Road safety awareness is being integrated into school curriculums to educate young people on traffic rules and pedestrian safety.
- Infrastructure Improvements: Projects like the Corridor Development Project have focused on building bicycle and pedestrian paths. These developments aim to protect vulnerable road users like cyclists and pedestrians while also improving the country’s road networks to handle increasing traffic volumes.
Support from the African Economic Commission
Ethiopia’s efforts in road safety have also been recognized by the African Economic Commission. The commission commended the country’s focus on transport infrastructure development and its commitment to tackling road safety challenges. This recognition paved the way for Alemu Sime’s appointment to the UNRSF Board of Trustees, where Ethiopia will play