UN launches Global Road Safety Campaign to create streets that embody life in South Africa

Pretoria, May 14, 2024 — The United Nations Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for Road Safety, Jean Todt, arrived in South Africa today to support national and local authorities’ road safety initiatives. His visit coincides with the launch of the UN Global Campaign for Road Safety, a collaborative effort between the UN and JCDecaux, the No.1 outdoor advertising company worldwide. The campaign aims to raise awareness of life-saving actions, particularly among young generations, who are disproportionately affected by road crashes globally.

Upon his arrival, Mr. Todt met with the Minister of Transport of South Africa to discuss strategies for improving road safety. Their dialogue focused on key areas such as infrastructure development, public awareness campaigns, and law enforcement measures. The Minister expressed gratitude for the UN’s commitment to supporting South Africa’s efforts in reducing road fatalities.

In addition to the official meetings, Mr. Todt actively participated in the SANTACO-led Road Safety Campaign Activation at the Bosman Taxi Rank in Pretoria. The event was a collaborative effort involving the UN South Africa, all entities of the Department of Transport, and Jonsson Workwear. During the activation, Viz belts were distributed to taxi drivers and pedestrians, emphasizing the importance of visibility and safety on the roads.

Speaking at the Bosman activation, Mr. Todt stated, “Road safety is a shared responsibility. By understanding the dangers, demanding action, and making a safety statement—on buckling up, obeying speed limits, driving sober, and not using a telephone—we can improve our own safety and the safety of those around us. Above all, please remember that road crashes are not inevitable. They are predictable; and we have the prescription to stop the carnage.”

At the official launch event hosted by Discovery in Sandton, Mr. Todt highlighted urgent needs in South Africa, including legislation on urban speed limits for passenger cars and motorcycles, as well as legislation on child restraint systems. The latter can lead to a 60 percent reduction in fatalities, while the proper use of homologated helmets can reduce the risk of death by more than 40 percent and injury by almost 70 percent. Through the UN Road Safety Fund, the UN is also tackling the road safety crisis through concrete capacity-building support to governments in these areas.

Nelson Muffuh, UN Resident Coordinator emphasized the need for a paradigm shift, urging us to innovate in how we respond and behave to tackle road accidents. He called for a commitment to collaboration across communities, various sectors, and government agencies. “Road accidents are a pressing issue that demands our attention. As influencers, we inspire and catalyze positive action, especially among young people. The importance of partnership and collaboration cannot be overstated—it is essential for scaling up awareness and working together effectively. Let us persistently champion and promote road safety”, said Muffuh.

The event was graced with the presence of celebrities who committed to the campaign, aspiring to create streets that embody life. The Road Safety champions for the campaign include by B Sello Maake, Caster Semenya, Gaisang Noge, Leanne Manas, Maduvha  Madima, Bryoni Govendor, Thokozani Ndaba, Dr. Moratwe Masima, Yvonne Chaka Chaka and Doctor Khumalo.

For interviews and media enquiries, please contact Eunice Namugwe, UN Information Centre Pre For interviews and media enquiries, please contact Eunice Namugwe, UN Information Centre Pretoria, at namugwe@un.org or 071 6828 310 toria, at namugwe@un.org or 071 6828 310