President John Dramani Mahama has appointed Abraham Amaliba as the Acting Director-General of the National Road Safety Authority. This appointment, effective January 23, 2025, underscores the government’s commitment to enhancing road safety management and ensuring efficient leadership at the Authority.
Abraham Amaliba currently serves as the Director of Conflict Resolution for the National Democratic Congress (NDC). His experience and leadership within the party, coupled with his extensive knowledge in governance and conflict resolution, position him as a strategic choice for this critical role.
The appointment was made in accordance with Article 195(1) of the 1992 Constitution and Section 13(2) of the National Road Safety Authority Act, 2019 (Act 993). As required by law, the decision is subject to the Constitutionally mandated advice from the governing Board of the National Road Safety Authority, which will be provided in consultation with the Public Services Commission. This procedural step ensures transparency and compliance with the nation’s governance framework.
In a formal communication, Mr. Amaliba has been notified of his appointment and requested to indicate his acceptance within 14 days. The swift response expected from him will allow for a seamless transition as he assumes his responsibilities.
President Mahama extended his congratulations and best wishes to Mr. Amaliba, emphasizing the importance of his role in driving the country’s road safety agenda. The President’s message reflects the administration’s confidence in Mr. Amaliba’s ability to bring innovative solutions and effective management to the National Road Safety Authority.
The appointment announcement has been communicated to key stakeholders, ensuring a collaborative approach to supporting the incoming Acting Director-General. Among those informed are the Vice President, the Chief of Staff, the Minister of Transport, the Board Chairman of the National Road Safety Authority, and the Chairperson of the Public Services Commission. This extensive communication underscores the importance of the role and the need for coordinated efforts to enhance road safety across the country.
The announcement was contained in a statement signed and issued by Dr. Callistus Mahama, Secretary to the President, on January 23, 2025. The statement reaffirms the government’s resolve to address road safety challenges and foster a culture of accountability and efficiency within the National Road Safety Authority.
Mr. Amaliba’s appointment comes at a time when road safety remains a critical concern in Ghana. The National Road Safety Authority plays a pivotal role in formulating policies, coordinating interventions, and implementing strategies to reduce road traffic accidents and their associated human and economic costs.
As the Acting Director-General, Mr. Amaliba is expected to bring his expertise in conflict resolution and governance to bear on the Authority’s operations. His leadership will be crucial in fostering partnerships with stakeholders, including law enforcement agencies, transport unions, and civil society organisations, to implement effective road safety measures.
The National Road Safety Authority has a mandate to ensure the safety of road users through education, enforcement, and engineering interventions. This includes campaigns to promote responsible driving behaviour, initiatives to improve road infrastructure, and measures to enforce compliance with road safety regulations. Mr. Amaliba’s appointment is therefore a significant step in strengthening the Authority’s capacity to deliver on its mandate.
The government’s focus on road safety aligns with broader national development goals. Safe and efficient road networks are essential for economic growth, facilitating trade and transportation while reducing the burden of road traffic injuries and fatalities on the healthcare system. By prioritising road safety, the government aims to create an environment conducive to socio-economic progress.
Stakeholders and industry experts have welcomed Mr. Amaliba’s appointment, expressing optimism about the positive impact his leadership could have on the Authority’s operations. They have called for a collaborative approach to address road safety challenges, highlighting the need for sustained investment in infrastructure, enforcement of traffic regulations, and public education campaigns.
While this appointment marks a new chapter for the National Road Safety Authority, it also presents an opportunity to reflect on the progress made and the challenges that lie ahead. Ghana has made significant strides in reducing road traffic fatalities in recent years, but much remains to be done to achieve the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal of halving the number of road traffic deaths and injuries by 2030.
As Mr. Amaliba prepares to take on his new role, the expectations are high. His ability to navigate the complexities of road safety management, engage with stakeholders, and implement effective strategies will be key to his success. The government’s continued support, coupled with the collective efforts of all stakeholders, will be essential in achieving the desired outcomes.
This appointment reaffirms the government’s commitment to ensuring effective leadership at all levels of public administration. It highlights the importance of merit-based appointments and the need for experienced individuals to spearhead critical national initiatives. Mr. Amaliba’s appointment is a testament to the government’s dedication to addressing pressing national issues and fostering development through capable leadership.
As the Acting Director-General, Mr. Amaliba will be at the forefront of efforts to improve road safety in Ghana. His leadership will be instrumental in shaping policies, implementing programs, and driving the Authority’s mission to make Ghana’s roads safer for all users. This role demands not only technical expertise but also a deep understanding of the social and economic factors that influence road safety.
The coming months will be crucial in determining the impact of Mr. Amaliba’s leadership. His ability to build on the Authority’s achievements, address existing challenges, and drive innovation in road safety management will be closely monitored. The success of his tenure will depend on his commitment to the role and the support he receives from the government and other stakeholders.
This appointment is not just a milestone for Mr. Amaliba but also a significant development for the National Road Safety Authority and the nation as a whole. It represents a renewed focus on road safety and a commitment to building a safer, more prosperous Ghana.
