The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has raised alarm over a sharp increase in road traffic fatalities in the first quarter of 2026, with 130 lives lost between January and March.
According to data released by the Service, it responded to 211 road traffic accidents during the period—significantly higher than the 144 cases recorded within the same timeframe in 2025.
Casualties nearly double
The rise in accidents has been accompanied by a worrying spike in casualties. In the first quarter of 2025, 144 accidents resulted in 86 deaths and 500 injuries.
However, in 2026, the 211 recorded crashes led to 130 deaths and 932 injuries, reflecting a sharp increase in both fatalities and injuries within just one year.
Growing road safety concerns
The figures point to a deepening road safety crisis, with not only more accidents occurring, but also more severe outcomes for victims.
Although the GNFS has yet to outline the specific causes behind the surge, the trend has intensified calls for stronger enforcement of traffic regulations, improved driver discipline, and increased public education on road safety.
The latest data underscores the urgent need for coordinated action by authorities and road users alike to reverse the rising tide of accidents and save lives on Ghana’s roads.
