Bamako, the capital of Mali, recorded a total of 2,635 road accidents in 2023, resulting in 195 fatalities and 1,542 severe injuries, according to data published Monday by the national daily L’Essor.
The report, titled Document bilan des accidents corporels de la circulation routière, revealed a grim statistic: an average of four deaths occurred each week due to traffic accidents in the city.
Among the victims, men accounted for 84% of the casualties, with the 36-45 age group being most affected.
The majority of incidents, 78%, occurred during daylight hours.
However, nighttime accidents, though less frequent, were often more severe, with a significant correlation to alcohol consumption, the report highlighted.
In response to the alarming figures, authorities are focusing on changing public behavior through a combination of education, training, awareness campaigns, enforcement, and penalties.
“We intend to take comprehensive action to address driver behavior through information, training, sensitization, control, and sanctions,” stated Balla Traoré, president of the special delegation for the Bamako district, speaking to L’Essor.
