The Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA), in partnership with Bloomberg Philanthropies, has extended humanitarian assistance to eight victims of recent road traffic crashes receiving treatment at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH).
The gesture formed part of activities marking the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims, a global observance dedicated to honouring people killed or injured in road accidents.
A delegation led by the Kumasi Mayor, Mr Richard Ofori Boadi Agyemang, visited the victims at the ‘C’ Block Emergency Unit of KATH.
The team donated medical supplies, bottled water, and cash support to the patients, offering relief and reassurance to families affected by the incidents.
Mr Boadi Agyemang, addressing the media, underscored the significance of the remembrance event, noting that it highlights the far-reaching consequences of road crashes on families and communities.
He stressed the need for improved road safety measures, including better road designs, controlled vehicle speeds, and stronger enforcement.
“This day reminds us of the urgent need to rethink how our roads are designed and used,” he said.
The Mayor called on drivers, transport operators, engineers, and policymakers to work collaboratively to reverse the rising trend of road traffic injuries and fatalities.
He reaffirmed the KMA’s commitment, together with Bloomberg Philanthropies, to implement interventions that enhance safety and reduce deaths.
Dr Yaw Opare Larbi, the Deputy Medical Director, representing the Chief Executive Officer of KATH, expressed concern over the alarming number of severe accident cases arriving at the emergency unit.
He revealed that roughly 30 percent of road crash patients brought in are in critical condition, placing immense strain on the hospital’s emergency and trauma services.
“Road accidents remain one of our major public health threats. We urge everyone, including drivers, pedestrians, and passengers to prioritise safety and strictly adhere to road regulations.
Mr Akwasi Wireko Brobbey, Bloomberg Philanthropies’ Initiative Coordinator, echoed the call for stronger collective action, emphasizing that road safety cannot be achieved without collaboration.
He reaffirmed Bloomberg’s support to the KMA through the Bloomberg Philanthropies Initiative for Global Road Safety (BIGRS), which promotes data-driven solutions, strengthens enforcement, and raises public awareness.
GNA
