DUBAI: A major road safety initiative has been introduced in the Middle East and North Africa by the Federation Internationale de l’Automobile, motorsports’ global governing body and the worldwide federation for mobility organizations.
FIA Safe Mobility 4 All & 4 Life aims to support the FIA’s member clubs and government authorities with training, mentorship and evidence-based actions to improve road safety for everyone.
The program was launched at an FIA Region I MENA Mobility Council seminar in Cairo on Wednesday. The event introduced the current road safety outlook in the MENA region, the UN Vision for Road Safety, and the Safe System Approach, and invited clubs to share knowledge and takeaways from their own initiatives.
Mohammed Ben Sulayem, FIA president, said: “The launch of the FIA Safe Mobility 4 All & 4 Life program for the first time in the Middle East and North Africa showcases the commitment of our FIA community to advancing road safety across the region at scale, bringing together 17 member clubs at this inaugural seminar in Cairo.
“At the FIA, we are committed to supporting our members in their delivery of life saving initiatives, and through this program we’re giving them and government authorities the tools and support to create safer roads for everyone.”
Road traffic incidents remain a leading cause of death worldwide, with the burden falling disproportionately on low- and middle-income countries. According to the World Health Organization, countries across the MENA region continue to face significant and persistent road safety challenges.
An FIA University initiative, the program will be delivered through in-person sessions and online learning. Guidance from international experts will help participants develop road safety projects that drive meaningful change for everyone.
Developed by the FIA, in collaboration with the UN Institute for Training and Research and with the support of the FIA Foundation, the start of the program across the MENA region highlights the commitment of FIA member clubs to taking a leading role in the development of concrete and relevant initiatives aiming at saving lives on the roads.
The launch comes ahead of 17 FIA members from the Asia-Pacific region graduating at the Palais des Nations in Geneva, following their successful completion of the program.
Essa Hamza Al-Failakawi, FIA MENA president, said: “Member clubs across our region face unique road safety challenges, and by bringing them together to collaborate and share expertise, we can help them find the solutions they need.
“Launching the Safe Mobility 4 All & 4 Life program across the Middle East and North Africa is the crucial first step in turning the local knowledge of member clubs into meaningful action.”
The director of UNITAR’s Division for People and Social Development, Alex Mejia, said: “Effective road safety policies only work when organizations work together towards a common goal. Through this program, participants gain the practical tools and insights to make a difference on the ground. We’re proud to partner with the FIA as we work together to make roads safer for everyone across the Middle East and North Africa.”
