Morocco leads global road safety initiative at landmark Marrakech conference

Wednesday 19 February 2025 - 12:30

By: Dakir Madiha

Morocco leads global road safety initiative at landmark Marrakech conference

The selection of Marrakech as the host city for the 4th World Ministerial Conference on Road Safety underscores Morocco's international credibility and commitment, according to Omar Hilale, Morocco's Permanent Representative to the UN.

Speaking to MAP on the sidelines of the conference, Hilale emphasized that this major event, held under the high patronage of King Mohammed VI, demonstrates the international community's trust in Morocco and highlights its dedication to South-South cooperation as an "integrated policy that has drawn international attention."

Hilale noted that Morocco is making history as the first African and Arab country to host this significant gathering. This is particularly meaningful given that approximately 25% of global traffic accidents occur in Africa. The Kingdom has demonstrated its ability to mobilize international support for road safety, especially in Africa, where this issue significantly impacts development and prosperity.

The ambassador highlighted the coordinated efforts of all stakeholders, aligned with Royal directives, to enhance road safety. These initiatives include incorporating road safety considerations into budgeting processes and raising public awareness about personal safety responsibilities.

African ministers have expressed interest in learning from the accumulated experience of Morocco's National Road Safety Agency (NARSA), in line with South-South cooperation objectives. Hilale emphasized Morocco's commitment to sharing its successful practices with friendly nations, noting the launch of the Mohammed VI International Road Safety Prize in Marrakech.

Conference delegations welcomed this royal initiative, viewing it as an incentive for Southern countries to adopt road safety-focused strategies. The prize recognizes governmental efforts, under Royal guidance, to prioritize road safety in development planning.

Hilale emphasized the significant potential of digitalization, artificial intelligence, and best practice sharing in preventing and combating road safety risks. He stated that the Marrakech Declaration represents a stepping stone toward greater international mobilization for road safety as a Sustainable Development Goal.

Morocco has committed to convening a follow-up meeting in 2026 to assess the international community's progress in implementing the Marrakech Declaration. This effort is expected to lead to a UN resolution that will formalize the declaration's objectives.