Road users should maintain road safety measures so as to avoid accidents that can easily be caused by the excitement during celebrations of the festive season, Kigali City Mayor, Aisa Kirabo Kacyira has said.

The Mayor made the call while addressing representatives from 12 public transport companies, both  local and regional, as well as  motorcycle taxi operators under their umbrella ASSETAMORWA.

"Construction of these roads has cost government a lot and it was done for the good of the citizens, so they should not instead cause accidents,” Kirabo said.

She advised transporters to cooperate with the traffic police in case of any danger, instead of trying to escape, which she said could instead cause more harm.

"Admit when you make a mistake, apologize and deal with the concerned parties to solve issues amicably,” she said.   

The meeting was aimed at bringing together stakeholders in keeping the city roads free from dangers during the festive season which includes activities that might undermine national security as well as accidents that are common during celebrations.

It also aimed at honoring transporters in the role they play in the development of the city as well as encouraging them to abide by road safety regulations.

In his speech, the head of Traffic Police, Chief Supt. Vincent Sano, noted that accidents during festive seasons are mainly caused by drunk driving, saying the tendency must be avoided.

"We must work upon changing the record of registering more accidents during festive seasons. This period must be like other normal days,” Sano said.

According to Sano, drivers are advised to maintain the maximum speed limit of 40 kms per hour within the city and 60 km/h out of the city.

He also said that as a measure of harmonizing activities on the roads, the traffic police department has trained and increased the number of police officers deployed, fully equipped with the necessary tools to avoid accidents.
He said that testing drivers if they are drunk will prevail on all roads and requested motorists to cooperate.

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