SUVs, Saloon Cars, and Pickups Top Pedestrian Killers in Kumasi – Report
Joint research by Johns Hopkins University and CSIR highlights vehicle types most involved in pedestrian deaths.
- SUVs, saloon cars, and pickups cause 51% of pedestrian deaths in Kumasi (2022-2024)
- Most accidents happen during weekends and at night
- Experts call for stronger law enforcement and a comprehensive road safety approach
A recent study has revealed that SUVs, saloon cars, and pickups are the deadliest vehicles on Kumasi’s roads, responsible for over half of pedestrian fatalities in the city.
The road safety risk factors study, conducted collaboratively by Johns Hopkins University (JHU), USA, the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), and the Road Research Institute (CSIR-BRRI), alongside data from the Kumasi BIGRS Office, paints a grim picture for pedestrian safety.
Between 2022 and 2024, out of 180 pedestrian deaths recorded, 98 (51%) were caused by SUVs, saloon cars, and pickups. In comparison, buses and minibuses accounted for 36 deaths, heavy goods vehicles 32, and 2 & 3 wheelers 14.
The report also highlights that most fatal accidents happen on weekends and during nighttime hours, underscoring critical risk periods.
The findings were presented at a stakeholder conference in Kumasi attended by key road safety players including the Moto Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) of the Ghana Police, driving school owners, Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly’s transport department, road engineers, and media representatives.
Speaking at the event, Ing. Francis Afukaar, Chief Research Scientist at CSIR-BRRI, emphasized the urgent need for police enforcement of traffic laws to curb the rising fatalities.
Dr. James Kumwenda, Global Program Manager at the Johns Hopkins International Injury Research Unit, called for a comprehensive “total system” approach to tackle the complex challenge of road safety in Kumasi.
