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United Nations Environment Programme
  • Overview

Road traffic injuries are a leading cause of death and disability worldwide, with nearly 1.2 million people killed and as many as 50 million injured each year. 

Globally, more than one in every four deaths occurs among pedestrians and cyclists. Nearly a quarter of all global deaths occur on the African continent, where pedestrians and cyclists account for almost 35% and pedestrians alone 31%, the highest of all pedestrian deaths in the world (GSRRS 2023; SSATP Africa report 2025). 

The 8th UN Global Road Safety Week, scheduled for 12-18 May 2025, provides an opportunity to spur action at national and local levels to make walking and cycling safe. This week aims to highlight concrete and specific interventions that can be undertaken by various stakeholders—including governments, international agencies, civil society, businesses, and schools—to improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists. 

Activities 

  1. We would like to hear from you: Photo Share  

Share a photo with us that relates to road safety while walking and cycling in your city/country. Share your experience and recommendations of how government and relevant stakeholders can promote safe walking and cycling in your city 

Participate here: https://forms.office.com/e/rcRZu9vD5p 

 

  1. Webinar 

The World Health Organization (WHO), UN-HABITAT, UNEP and partners will host a webinar to discuss solutions for creating safe, accessible and inclusive walking and cycling cities in Africa. 

Registration details to be availed soon 

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More information: 

The Share the Road Programme provides global leadership to governments and stakeholders in developing countries to support and prioritizing investments in infrastructure to meet the needs of people who walk and cycle. This includes developing relevant tools, providing in-country support, and advocating for non-motorized transport at the global level. 

PAAPAM is a first of its kind framework to chart the path for Active Mobility investment on the continent for the next 10 years. It represents a bold vision across three strategic pillars – safety, advocacy, and integration into policy – the plan sets ambitious goals to eliminate road fatalities for pedestrians and cyclists, enhance accessibility, reduce pollution and create infrastructure that fosters comfort and health. 

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Contact 

Carly Gilbert-Patrick, Team lead Active Mobility, Digitalisation and Mode Integration 

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