– Minister Benn says ‘Wear a helmet, it could save your life’

WITH at least 20 motorcyclists losing their lives on Guyana’s roads so far this year, Minister of Home Affairs, Robeson Benn, is sounding the alarm and urging citizens, especially motorcyclists—to take greater responsibility for their safety.

The alarming statistic, which reflects a three per cent increase in road fatalities compared to last year, has prompted renewed government efforts to reduce traffic-related deaths, particularly through the ongoing national helmet distribution campaign and the soon-to-be-launched “Secure-I” crime reporting app.

“We want to halve the number of road deaths in Guyana,” Minister Benn declared during a recent public outreach. “Unfortunately, motorcycle fatalities continue to rise. We’ve already recorded 20 deaths for the year—and these are not just numbers. These are lives lost, families broken.”

The Ministry of Home Affairs, in partnership with the Guyana Police Force and corporate sponsors, has ramped up the distribution of full-face helmets across the country. The initiative, launched last year, aims to increase helmet usage, especially among young people, to reduce the severity of injuries in the event of accidents.
“We want persons to do the right thing. Wearing a helmet should not be optional, it’s essential,” Benn stated. “The right gear could mean the difference between surviving an accident or becoming another tragic statistic.”
Beyond road safety, Minister Benn also highlighted progress in crime reduction, revealing a 12.3 percent decline in serious crimes compared to the same period last year. He credited this trend to improved policing strategies and stronger community engagement.

To further bolster public safety, the Ministry will soon roll out “Secure-I”, a digital platform designed to make reporting crimes and emergencies faster and easier. Citizens will be able to submit reports via smartphones, tablets, or computers, with real-time information fed directly into police systems.

“This app will allow people to report incidents like domestic violence, theft, and public disturbances quickly and confidentially,” Benn explained. “It’s about empowering citizens and making our communities safer.”
The Minister also issued a national call to action, encouraging all Guyanese, particularly youths, to become safety advocates in their homes and neighbourhoods.

“Each of us has a role to play. Whether it’s putting on a helmet, reporting a crime, or looking out for our neighbours, we must all act responsibly to build a safer Guyana,” Benn said.
The Ministry of Home Affairs reaffirmed its commitment to reducing road deaths and violent crimes through sustained awareness, enforcement, and community-driven initiatives.