Ouagadougou:The number of traffic accidents in the Kouls region saw a significant decline of 48% from July to September 2026, dropping from 63 to 33 cases. This decrease occurred amidst intensified awareness campaigns promoting the systematic wearing of helmets, as reported by Chief Commissioner Larba Salambanga of the National Police during a press conference.

According to Burkina Information Agency, a total of 131 accidents resulting in 14 fatalities were recorded over the past three months. In July, there were 63 accidents and eight deaths, while August saw a reduction to 35 accidents and two deaths. In September, the figures further decreased to 33 accidents with four deaths.

The data indicates a 47.6% decrease in the number of accidents from July to September, with injuries halved from 70 to 35. However, road fatalities showed a less consistent pattern, totaling 14 deaths over the period with variations each month.

This positive trend is attributed to enhanced efforts starting in August 2026 to promote helmet use, notably through the "Shield on Head" campaign, as per the National Police. The authorities credit the improvement to better adherence to traffic rules and increased helmet use among riders of two- and three-wheeled vehicles.

Chief Commissioner Larba Salambanga emphasized the importance of making helmet-wearing a habitual practice rather than a temporary measure enforced by the presence of security forces. Despite the recent improvements, there is still concern, as 34 people died on Kouls roads between January and August 2026, compared to 41 fatalities for the entire year of 2025.

The National Police plans to continue its control measures and awareness campaigns to sustain this downward trend and further reduce road fatalities.