In a concerted effort to enhance road safety and reduce traffic-related incidents, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) has intensified its nationwide sensitisation campaigns targeting schools, drivers, and popular social venues. These initiatives align with the country’s ongoing commitment to fostering responsible road usage and curbing traffic fatalities.

SCHOOL-BASED SENSITISATION PROGRAMMES
Between January 13 and 17, traffic officers conducted educational sessions across various schools to promote road safety awareness among students. The initiative reached institutions such as St. Paul Primary and Chateau Margot Primary in Region 4C; Auchlyne Primary, Rose Hall Primary, and All Saints Primary in Region 6; Leonora Secondary in Region 3; One Mile Primary and Amelia’s Ward Nursery in Region 10; Diamond Primary, Diamond Nursery, New Diamond Primary, Canadian School of Arts & Science, and Diamond No. 2 Nursery in Region 4B; Adventure Nursery, Aurora Secondary, Good Hope Nursery, Good Hope Primary, Abram Zuil Secondary, Affiance Nursery, Reliance Nursery, Huis’t Dieren Nursery, and Huis’t Dieren Primary in Region 2; Carlton Hall Primary and Cottage Nursery in Region 5; Santa Rosa, Port Kaituma Secondary School, Pakera Primary, and North West Secondary in Region 1; Mahdia Primary in Region 6; Nappi Primary in Region 9; and North Georgetown Secondary and North Ruimveldt Secondary, both under Traffic Headquarters.
These sessions focused on educating students about pedestrian safety, the importance of using pedestrian crossings, understanding traffic signals, and the dangers of distracted walking. By targeting young learners, the GPF aims to cultivate a culture of road safety from an early age.

DRIVER AND OPERATOR ENGAGEMENTS
From January 12 to 18, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) conducted a series of road safety awareness sessions for drivers and vehicle operators across various regions, targeting key locations such as New Market Street near GPHC, Rupert Craig Highway, Mandela Public Road near the Gardens, Karasabai Village in the South Pakarimas, Houston Public Road, Linden Hire Car Park in Central Georgetown, Brickdam Police Station, Nappi Village in Central Rupununi, Mabaruma Police Station’s Commander’s Boardroom, and Sheriff Street. Other areas included the Turkeyen Police Station Compound, Meadow

Bank Public Road, East Canje and Stanleytown Car Parks, Agricola Public Road, Nelson Mandela Avenue, Peter’s Hall Public Road, Mackenzie Station District, Parika Hire Car Park, Soesdyke Junction, Princess Street and Mandela Avenue, and the Stabroek Market Area, encompassing the Route 40 and 41 Minibus Parks and Hire Car Park. During these sessions, traffic ranks emphasised the critical importance of adhering to speed limits, the dangers of driving under the influence, and the necessity of regular vehicle maintenance. Drivers were also reminded of the legal repercussions of traffic violations and the collective responsibility of ensuring safer roads.
OUTREACH TO SOCIAL VENUES
Recognising the role of social establishments in influencing driver behaviour, the GPF conducted sensitisation exercises at several popular bars known for large gatherings: Tribe Bar, Church Street, Georgetown; The Treehouse Sports Bar; Platinum Sports Bar, East Bank Demerara; and Steve Sports Bar, East Bank Demerara.
These initiatives aimed to remind both patrons and proprietors of the dangers associated with impaired driving. Bar owners were encouraged to promote responsible drinking and to provide alternatives, such as designated drivers or taxi services, to patrons.
PROGRESS IN ROAD SAFETY
These proactive measures by the GPF are part of a broader strategy to address road safety concerns in Guyana. Recent statistics indicate a positive trend, with a reported 30% decrease in road fatalities in 2024 compared to the previous year. This decline is attributed to enhanced enforcement, public awareness campaigns, and community engagement initiatives.
Despite these improvements, challenges remain. The GPF continues to combat issues such as speeding, distracted driving, and non-compliance with traffic regulations. Ongoing efforts, including the introduction of new technologies and deeper collaborations with community stakeholders, are planned for 2025 to further enhance road safety.

The GPF acknowledges that the success of these initiatives relies heavily on public cooperation. Traffic Chief, Senior Superintendent Mahendra Singh, emphasised the importance of collective responsibility, stating, “It was not the police alone; this success was a joint effort.” He urged all road users to remain vigilant and to adhere to traffic laws, reinforcing that road safety is a shared duty.