Accra: Pastors and religious leaders in Ghana have been called upon to leverage their influence and platforms to promote road safety awareness, aiming to reduce the increasing number of road accidents in the country. Reverend Cyril Benedict Crabbe, President of Accident Victims Support Ghana (AVSG), emphasized the critical role clergy could play in addressing the issue during a 'Breakfast with the Clergy' event in Accra.
According to Ghana News Agency, the event brought together clergy members, road safety advocates, insurance companies, health professionals, and accident victims to discuss enhancing road safety advocacy. Rev. Crabbe highlighted the significant impact pastors could have due to their large congregations and the respect they command in society. However, he expressed disappointment at the low attendance, noting that only a few of the 30 invited pastors participated.
Rev. Crabbe suggested that influential religious figures like Dr. Mensa Otabil, Rev. Sam Korankye Ankrah, and others could contribute significantly by dedicating time to road safety messages during services. He also urged President John Dramani Mahama and the government to prioritize road safety initiatives, citing alarming statistics from the first half of 2025, which reported 7,289 road crashes, resulting in 1,504 deaths and 8,364 injuries.
Reverend Ramson Asante Darteh, General Overseer of the All Nations Christian Centre, advocated for a shift in mindset towards road safety. He stressed the importance of improving road conditions, particularly through the dualization of major highways, and called for stricter enforcement of roadworthiness and insurance regulations.
Rev Daniel Ogbarmey Tetteh of New Creation Chapel International emphasized the biblical principle of supporting accident victims, drawing from the parable of the Good Samaritan. He encouraged congregations to offer prayers, financial support, and maintain vehicle safety while advocating for responsible road use.
Naa Lamile Adade, a member of the Full Gospel Business Men's Fellowship International, voiced concerns about the state of road infrastructure, urging the government to address faded markings and broken signs. She also advised pedestrians and drivers to adhere to safety regulations to prevent accidents.
Representatives from the Christian Council of Ghana and the Ghana Pentecostal and Charismatic Council (GPCC) committed to supporting road safety advocacy efforts, recognizing the urgent need to address the high rate of road accidents in Ghana.