Ethiopia's House of Peoples' Representatives has urged modernizing operations in the transport sector to resolve persistent challenges. Transport and Logistics Minister Dr. Alemu Seme responded to queries, noting major issues with traffic accidents and road safety mainly caused by driver errors. Initiatives focus on enhancing driver competency and leveraging technology for improved management.
On Tahsas 7, 2018, in Addis Ababa, members of the House of Peoples' Representatives questioned officials on transport sector issues, prompting responses from Transport and Logistics Minister Dr. Alemu Seme. Lawmakers emphasized the need to correct poor management practices, inefficient operations, modernize transport services, safeguard road safety, and prevent traffic accidents.
The minister acknowledged that traffic accidents and road safety pose significant challenges in Ethiopia. Although the number of vehicles in the country is relatively low, the accident rate remains high, primarily due to drivers' lack of competence and behavioral issues. He noted that most accidents stem from driver errors, with efforts now concentrating on boosting driver skills.
To address this, training requirements and licensing standards have been established to improve drivers' knowledge, ethics, and abilities. Legally mandated vehicle technical inspections and maintenance are being enforced through authorized institutions by the relevant agency. Technological solutions are being implemented in the transport sector to enhance management and eliminate inefficiencies. Specific initiatives target expense and revenue operations, public transport, and taxi services. Additionally, the sector is harnessing youth potential to contribute to the national green economy agenda.