Local Actions Project starts implementation in Zambia

Local Actions project ‘Advancing Lower Speeds in Lusaka’ led by Chilekwa O’Brien began its implementation last June with the support of the Zambia Road Safety Trust. The project looks to enforce 30 KM/H speed limits in pedestrian zones, particularly in areas considered ‘high risk’. 

The Zambia Road Safety Trust began its operations by finalizing preparations for user mapping efforts. The team coordinated its members to ensure that fieldwork is safe for all involved. 

“Our collective commitment is to ensure safer roads for everyone and we invite you to our endeavors to promote global road safety” 

Following the meeting, the team set out on a two-day non-motorized transport (NMT) user safety mapping survey across five high-density pedestrian zones in Lusaka, Zambia. Through the survey, Zambia Road Safety Trust gathered different insights into the mobility experiences of vulnerable road users in the area. The survey also shed light on which risk factors these road users encounter. 

The results of the survey will contribute to the efforts of raising public awareness of the importance of adhering to the 30 KM/h pedestrian speed zones.

The Zambia Road Safety Trust has also done work in implementing safe infrastructure at local schools such as the Lusaka Primary School

“Recognizing the importance of a safe learning environment, we collaborated closely with the school's administration and local authorities such as the Lusaka City Council to assess the existing infrastructure and identify potential hazards. Our comprehensive risk assessment provided the foundation for the transformational plan that followed.”

The Safety Infrastructure improvement includes designated walkways, speed bumps, and clear road signs.