The Sierra Leone Road Safety Authority (SLRSA) has announced a sweeping vehicle safety campaign, giving motorists until October 1, 2025, to comply with stricter road safety standards or face enforcement action.
According to a public notice issued on Tuesday, the new measures are part of a nationwide effort to ensure vehicles meet the country’s safety regulations and reduce road accidents. SLRSA says enforcement will begin immediately after the October deadline.
To support vehicle owners, SLRSA will roll out Mobile Stations starting Monday, August 4, 2025. The stations will offer on-the-spot services and use the WANGOV payment platform to process transactions. Staff will be available to guide customers and assist with required documentation.
The new safety campaign will focus on the following:
1. Mandatory First Aid Kits:
Under Regulation 55(6) of the Road Traffic Regulations, 2011, all vehicles must now carry a first aid kit, which will be available for purchase and required for all new vehicle registrations.
2. Proof of Ownership for Registrations:
Starting September 1, 2025, all motor vehicle registrations must include the official Title of Ownership from the country of origin, as required by Regulation 2(1) of the 2011 regulations.
3. Mandatory Vehicle Testing (MOT):
SLRSA reminded motorists that all vehicles must undergo regular Motor Vehicle Testing at designated testing centers, in accordance with Section 70 of the Road Traffic Act, 2007. The authority confirmed that no additional fees will be charged for these inspections.
4. Stricter Rules for Container Vehicles:
Trucks transporting containers from the quay must meet minimum safety standards before being cleared to operate on public roads.
SLRSA emphasized that failure to meet the new requirements will attract enforcement actions, adding that “ignorance of the law will not be accepted as an excuse.” The authority also appealed to the public to cooperate, noting that safe roads are a shared responsibility.
By John Samson
