Morocco prioritizes road safety as a pillar of sustainable development

Tuesday 18 February 2025 - 16:00

By: Dakir Madiha

Morocco prioritizes road safety as a pillar of sustainable development

Morocco has positioned road safety as a strategic priority within its broader sustainable development framework, spearheaded under the leadership of King Mohammed VI, declared Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch on Tuesday during the opening of the 4th Global Ministerial Conference on Road Safety in Marrakech.

Speaking at the event, Akhannouch highlighted the Kingdom's commitment to advancing road safety through the implementation of comprehensive laws, projects, and initiatives. These efforts include the adoption of an updated road code, the automation of traffic violation monitoring, enhanced vehicle inspection processes, improved driver training, and significant upgrades to road infrastructure.

In alignment with its ambitious infrastructure agenda, Morocco is preparing for major upcoming events such as the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and the 2030 FIFA World Cup. These preparations are guided by the principles of a “safe system” approach, which prioritizes human safety and sustainable mobility as central pillars.

Akhannouch also emphasized the disproportionate impact of road accidents in developing countries, especially in Africa, which accounts for approximately 19% of global road traffic fatalities. Recognizing this challenge, Morocco, as part of the African continent, aspires to support other nations in improving their road safety metrics and accelerating their developmental progress.

Expressing Morocco’s readiness to share its expertise, Akhannouch outlined the country’s advancements in institutional road safety management, transport system development, and the integration of modern technologies, including digital transformation and artificial intelligence.

The Prime Minister underscored the necessity of enhanced international cooperation, the sharing of best practices, and the alignment of road safety initiatives with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to address current and future challenges.

He expressed hope that the Marrakech Declaration, to emerge from this conference, would represent a significant step forward in implementing innovative measures and ambitious initiatives to improve road safety globally.

Held under the High Patronage of King Mohammed VI, the 4th Global Ministerial Conference on Road Safety carries the theme “Commit to Life.” Organized by Morocco’s Ministry of Transport and Logistics in partnership with the World Health Organization, the event gathers official delegations led by over 100 ministers responsible for transport, infrastructure, health, and internal affairs.