DUBAI – The Federation Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), the global governing body for motorsport and a leading federation for mobility organizations, has announced a significant expansion of its vital road safety initiative into the regions of Africa and the Middle East. This strategic move underscores a profound commitment to enhancing public safety and fostering lasting positive change worldwide.
Mohammed Ben Sulayem, President of the FIA, lauded this decisive step, emphasizing its potential to render roads safer and deliver enduring improvements globally. The initiative, known as the FIA Safe Mobility 4 All and 4 Life program, is meticulously designed to empower local authorities and organizations. It provides comprehensive training, invaluable mentorship, and evidence-based strategies to facilitate the development of concrete projects aimed at drastically improving road safety for all citizens.
The imperative for such an initiative is stark. Road traffic accidents tragically remain a primary cause of fatalities across the globe, with a disproportionate impact on low- and middle-income countries. Data from the World Health Organization reveals that the African region bears the highest road traffic fatality rate worldwide, while nations across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) continue to grapple with persistent and formidable road safety challenges. This expansion directly addresses these critical humanitarian concerns.
Building upon its successful implementation in the Americas and Asia-Pacific regions, the expansion of the FIA Safe Mobility 4 All & 4 Life program represents a robust reinforcement of the FIA’s unwavering dedication to promoting and safeguarding secure mobility for all road users globally. This collaborative endeavor was developed by the FIA in partnership with the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) and with crucial support from the FIA Foundation.
In his remarks, President Ben Sulayem expressed his profound satisfaction: “Following the resounding success of the initial FIA Safe Mobility 4 All and 4 Life programs, I am immensely pleased to announce the expansion of this crucial initiative to Africa and the Middle East. This marks a truly decisive step towards making our roads safer and delivering lasting, positive change across the globe.” He further highlighted the collaborative spirit, stating, “Through our partnership with the United Nations Institute for Training and Research, we are working hand-in-hand with our members to equip them with the essential tools and networks needed to drive global action and build a safer future for all road users.”
Echoing this sentiment, Essa Hamza Al-Failakawi, President of the FIA Region I MENA Mobility Council, underscored the necessity of collective action. “Across the Middle East and North Africa, improving road safety demands strong collaboration and a shared, unwavering commitment to change. Through the Safe Mobility 4 All & 4 Life program, we can significantly strengthen regional cooperation and empower our member clubs to assume a leading role in shaping safer mobility systems for our communities.”
Adding to the chorus of support, Jinaro Kibet, President of FIA Region I ACTA, emphasized the urgency of the matter for Africa. “Road safety stands as one of the most pressing public health challenges across Africa, and initiatives such as FIA Safe Mobility 4 All & 4 Life are absolutely critical in helping us address this issue at scale. This program empowers our member clubs with invaluable global expertise, enabling them to deliver practical, life-saving solutions directly within their communities.”
This expansion is a testament to the FIA’s proactive vision and its dedication to fostering a world where safe mobility is a fundamental right for everyone, reflecting a global commitment to humanitarian well-being and sustainable development.
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