According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Côte d’Ivoire reported a road traffic mortality rate of 20.6 deaths per 100,000 population in 2021, a figure that underscores a widespread public health challenge shared by other African nations like the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Republic of the Congo (Congo-Brazzaville), Ghana, Senegal, and Nigeria. These countries are actively developing initiatives to address road safety issues, reduce traffic fatalities, and enhance mobility for their citizens.
Ivory Coast has led the way by implementing an advanced smart traffic camera system. This groundbreaking project, directed by Quipux Afrique S.A., exemplifies how collaboration between public and private sectors can foster technological innovation. Viion Systems Inc. is proud to have contributed its cutting-edge technology and expertise to this initiative, setting an example for other countries like the DRC and Congo-Brazzaville to follow.
Adding to this success, Côte d’Ivoire’s Ministry of Transport was awarded the prestigious Kofi Annan Road Safety Award for Innovation in Digitalization of Transport Services in 2023. Presented in Marrakech, Morocco, this recognition highlights the Intelligent Transport System (ITS) project spearheaded by Quipux Afrique with significant contributions from Viion Systems Inc. The project demonstrates how advanced technology can address road safety challenges, a model that nations such as Congo-Brazzaville and the DRC could replicate
Key Achievements of the Partnership
- Strategic Design and Planning:
Viion Systems Inc. collaborated closely with Quipux Afrique to design a solution tailored to Côte d’Ivoire’s needs, providing a model that countries like the DRC and Congo-Brazzaville could adapt to their unique road safety requirements.
- High-Level Technological Implementation:
The deployment of more than 120 smart cameras across strategic locations in Côte d’Ivoire demonstrates the effectiveness of low-power technology, solar energy, and cellular networks. This adaptable approach makes it suitable for implementation in complex environments like urban centers in Kinshasa (DRC) or Brazzaville (Congo)
- Building Local Capacity:
Beyond installation, Viion Systems Inc. empowered local teams through training programs, ensuring sustainability. This approach could benefit countries like the Republic of the Congo, where capacity-building efforts are critical for long-term success.
- Impact on Road Safety:
The system detects various traffic violations, including speeding, red-light violations, illegal turns, wrong-way driving, and phone use while driving, among others. These measures have led to a 35% reduction in road fatalities, from 1,614 deaths in 2021 to 1,051 in 2022, according to official figures. This remarkable impact demonstrates the effectiveness of combining technology with proactive enforcement to foster behavioral change among drivers. Such success underscores the potential for similar outcomes in nations like the DRC and Congo-Brazzaville
Innovation in Automated Penalties
Inspired by the French model, the system introduces electronic fines and penalty points. This transparent enforcement process ensures funds are allocated directly to the state, fostering safer driving practices. Countries like the DRC and Senegal are exploring similar mechanisms to modernize traffic enforcement.
- “With the cameras monitoring us, every driver is more aware of their behavior,” explained Raphaël Gossan, Deputy Director of the Special Road Safety Police.
A Shared Future
The success of this project reflects the Ministry of Transport – Côte d’Ivoire’s dedication to road safety, the leadership of Quipux Afrique, and Viion Systems Inc.’s significant contributions. It also serves as an inspiration for the entire region. According to the Minister of Transport, Amadou Koné, the goal is to reduce road fatalities by 50% by 2025 through a combination of advanced technology, public awareness campaigns, and effective law enforcement.
Ivory Coast’s story exemplifies how partnerships among governments, institutions, and companies can drive meaningful and sustainable change. Viion Systems Inc. is proud to have played a role in this initiative, reaffirming its commitment to building a safer and more connected future for all.
Senegal, The Democratic Republic of Congo and the Republic of the Congo are among the nations taking proactive steps to implement Intelligent Transport Systems. Côte d’Ivoire’s experience serves as a roadmap for these countries as they work to create safer roads for their populations. With Viion Systems Inc.’s support, a safer and more connected Africa is within reach
Learn More
For more details about this project, visit:
- World Health Organization Data 2021
- Africanews Video
- More Information on YouTube
- Kofi Annan Road Safety Award Details
A safer future is possible when we work together. Join us in making it a reality.
