Project Lead(s): Kalkidan Mulugeta
Issue
Globally, traffic accidents result in about 1.3 million deaths every year, with low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) accounting for 90% of the deaths, despite having only 48 percent of the world’s vehicles.
Despite the high number of injuries and deaths from road accidents in LMICs, preventive efforts are often non-existent and healthcare systems are not prepared to meet the challenge, as trauma care and rehabilitation systems are often poorly developed.
Solution
Research2Save is working to create a comprehensive database that will provide real-time data on road traffic accidents (RTA) and fatalities in Namibia, through integration of mobile telephony with RTA alert systems.
The project aim was to create a digital platform that will enable the general public, private sector and public service providers to come together and share information on RTAs.
The database integrates GIS, GPS, SMS, Facebook and Twitter feeds to produce data in real time.
Road safety awareness campaigns were run in schools and colleges, in addition to announcements through public radio and television.
Outcome
The Report2Save app was developed in Android and IOS versions to support an RTA-comprehensive database and is currently in the testing phase.
The team has also created a strategy to market the app and has developed a study booklet on road safety.
The project team has developed a strong working relationship with the Motor Vehicle Accident (MVA) Fund of Namibia, and has shared the Report2 Save project with MVA Fund’s Accident and Injury Prevention Centre.
The project team is currently looking for other grants or funders to support the current app.