The Deputy Inspector General of Police in charge of Operations, CP Vincent Sano, has called on pedestrians and all road users to cross roads purposefully and only at designated points to help prevent road accidents.
CP Sano made the remarks on November 11, 2025, during the ongoing “Turindane–Tugereyo Amahoro” road safety campaign held in Bishenyi Taxi Park, Runda Sector, Kamonyi District. The campaign aims to promote responsible behavior among road users and strengthen efforts to reduce traffic-related accidents.
The event brought together more than 1,000 participants, including truck drivers mostly operating Howo trucks public transport drivers, motorcyclists, cyclists, and pedestrians. All were reminded of their shared responsibility in ensuring road safety and protecting one another from preventable road crashes.
The Southern Province Governor, Alice Kayitesi, emphasized the importance of safeguarding both lives and public infrastructure, urging all citizens to take ownership of maintaining safety and environmental standards. “We gathered here to discuss the safety of people, property, and public infrastructure. ‘Turindane–Tugereyo Amahoro’ should not only be about life preservation but also about protecting infrastructure that cost the nation significant resources,” she said.
Kayitesi also encouraged vehicle owners to regularly test emissions to minimize air pollution, noting that this practice extends engine life and helps preserve public health.
On his part, CP Sano said that road safety awareness remains a continuous national priority, as accidents continue to claim lives and affect the economy. “This campaign started in Rubavu District last week and will continue across other provinces. It is a continuous effort that concerns all of us. We must each play our part to protect our lives and those of others,” he stated.
He further highlighted that globally, road accidents claim over one million lives annually and cost the world economy about 3% of global GDP due to medical expenses, vehicle repairs, and insurance costs losses that could be avoided through preventive measures.
The DIGP urged pedestrians to cross roads attentively and with purpose, always using designated pedestrian crossings, and reminded all road users that mutual care and cooperation are key to achieving safer journeys.
He also pointed out common causes of accidents, including speeding, drunk or fatigued driving, failure to respect pedestrian crossings and traffic signs, reckless overtaking, and lack of vehicle inspection. CP Sano urged all drivers to strictly adhere to road safety regulations to prevent avoidable tragedies.
