Faced with an unprecedented road carnage at the start of 2026, the Minister of Transport, Amadou Koné , is taking a firm stance. With 164 deaths in just six weeks , the Ivorian government is adopting a " zero tolerance " strategy to stop the carnage on the country's roads.

An unbearable human toll

Since January 1, 2026, road safety figures have been alarming. The National Security Council meeting of February 12 revealed chilling statistics:

1. 519 accidents recorded.
2. 164 deaths (a tragic average of 4 deaths per day).
3. 1,934 wounded .

The attack plan: The end of impunity

The minister has instructed law enforcement to implement a systematic and indiscriminate crackdown. From now on, every infraction will be punished with the utmost severity.

1. Increased roadside checks

Inspectors and police officers will prioritize the following:

1. Lack of documents: Valid driver's license, insurance and vehicle inspection certificate.
2. Vehicle condition: Worn tires, faulty lighting, no warning triangle.
3. Risky behaviors: Alcohol driving, too many passengers, overloading and not wearing a helmet for two-wheelers.

2. Offensive on vehicle inspection centers

Suspecting cases of fraud, the ministry is launching unannounced inspections across the country. The verdict is clear: any vehicle inspection center issuing fraudulent certificates to unsafe vehicles will be immediately closed . Increased scrutiny will also be placed on buses and trucks, which are involved in the deadliest accidents.

3. Digitalization and civic responsibility

To directly involve drivers and citizens, two digital tools are being highlighted:

1. Checking your driving licence points balance: Via www.iservicepoint.ci , users can track their balance to avoid having their driving licence cancelled.
2. “Transport Alert” platform: A reporting tool allowing every citizen to report dangerous behavior or abuses observed on the road.

"The fun and games are over. Road safety is a matter of individual behavior: respecting speed limits, courtesy, and vigilance." — Amadou Koné , Minister of Transport.

Key takeaways

Indicator	Data (6 weeks)
Number of accidents	519
Daily mortality	4 deaths per day
Priority #1	Zero tolerance & surprise inspections