Authorities in Côte d’Ivoire have announced a zero-tolerance policy to curb road indiscipline, particularly in the economic capital, Abidjan, amid rising road accidents.

The Ministry of Transport says the new measures are aimed at improving road safety after more than 500 accidents and at least 160 deaths were recorded since the start of 2026. Tougher penalties for major traffic offences and surprise vehicle inspections are among the steps being introduced.

Despite ongoing awareness campaigns, road crashes remain frequent. Officials have voiced concern over the growing number of fatalities, while residents and drivers attribute the situation to reckless driving, ageing public transport vehicles, and the increasing presence of motorcycle delivery riders, many of whom are perceived to lack proper training.

In 2024 alone, Côte d’Ivoire recorded more than 10,000 road accidents, resulting in at least 1,000 deaths—figures that underscore the urgency of stricter enforcement and behavioural change on the roads.