By: Christian Appleton
Harper City, Maryland County – A significant push for safer roads in Maryland County culminated over the weekend with the successful conclusion of a comprehensive Road Safety Awareness Project in Harper City. Spearheaded by Partners in Health (PIH) Liberia, the initiative saw a powerful collaboration with the Ministry of Public Works, the Harper City Corporation, the Liberia National Police (LNP), and the Maryland County Health Team. The project, fully funded by PIH, directly addressed the concerning rise in road traffic accidents within the county, particularly those involving motorcycles.
The impetus for this vital campaign stemmed from the stark realities witnessed within the Emergency and Critical Care Unit, as Cornelius Teah Doe, the Project Manager for PIH, explained. “We realized something needed to be done beyond just treating injuries,” Doe stated, highlighting the proactive approach taken by PIH. Recognizing that their partners shared these concerns but faced financial constraints, PIH initiated this collaborative endeavor to pool resources and expertise for a greater impact.
The collective commitment to improving road safety resonated deeply among the partnering organizations. The Liberia National Police, Maryland Detachment, the Harper City Corporation, the Maryland branches of the Motorcycle, Tricycle, and Drivers Unions, and the Maryland branches of the Ministries of Public Works, Gender, and Transport, alongside other key stakeholders, united behind this crucial cause. Doe emphasized the seamless synergy achieved, noting, “The collaboration from the start was exceptional. Working together was the best way to create meaningful change.”
During the intensive campaign, the LNP took a leading role, expertly conducting workshops focused on critical aspects of road safety. Their efforts ensured that the campaign’s messaging was not only clear and practical but also fully aligned with existing traffic regulations. The Ministries of Public Works and Transport actively contributed their technical expertise, co-facilitating sessions and providing valuable insights.
PIH played a pivotal role in providing the essential logistical support, meticulously organizing meetings, and ensuring that all necessary resources were readily available. The involvement of the Maryland County Health Team was invaluable, bringing their firsthand understanding of the public health consequences of road traffic accidents to the forefront. Locally, the Harper City Corporation demonstrated strong support by generously hosting planning meetings at no cost, underscoring the local government’s commitment to the initiative.
A distinctive strength of the project lay in the active participation of community-based groups. Motorcycle unions, tricycle drivers, and various youth organizations enthusiastically mobilized their members, ensuring widespread community engagement. Youth groups played a particularly dynamic role in disseminating road safety awareness through creative and engaging activities.
Doe lauded the unwavering commitment of all involved, remarking, “One of the most impressive aspects was how every partner brought their unique strengths to the table, respecting each other’s roles. This sense of unity made a big difference in the project’s success.”
The campaign strategically focused on high-risk zones, particularly areas surrounding schools, hospital perimeters, and major intersections, where interactions between pedestrians and vehicles are most frequent and potentially hazardous. A tangible outcome of this focus was the clear marking of pedestrian crosswalks in these critical locations, serving as a visual reminder to drivers to exercise caution and reduce speed. The overarching goal was to foster a positive shift in driver behavior, especially in areas where vulnerable populations are present.
Complementing the workshops and targeted awareness activities, a well-organized parade served as a powerful visual statement, further underscoring the paramount importance of road safety within the community. Doe specifically highlighted the LNP’s exemplary leadership in guiding the campaign, which significantly bolstered its credibility and overall success. “By being hands-on and leading by example, the LNP set a standard for others to follow, reinforcing road safety as a community priority,” he affirmed.
While formal feedback collection is underway, initial responses from the community have been overwhelmingly positive. Parents, in particular, have expressed profound gratitude for the newly established crosswalks, noting a significant increase in the perceived safety of their children traveling to and from school. The collaborative spirit of the project, where every participant felt heard and respected, played a crucial role in maintaining motivation and fostering a sense of shared ownership.
Maryland County Superintendent, Honorable Henry B. Cole, extended his sincere commendation to PIH for their significant contribution to enhancing road safety across the region. “The marking of pedestrian crosswalks and the workshops were crucial initiatives for saving lives. We also appreciate the use of local language on the radio to inform the community about the importance of road safety,” Superintendent Cole stated. “This initiative has contributed immensely to saving lives, and we are grateful for PIH’s support.”
As the formal campaign concludes, PIH remains optimistic that their concerted efforts will cultivate lasting positive changes in the road safety culture throughout Maryland County. Doe emphasized the critical need for sustained efforts, urging all stakeholders and communities to continue actively promoting safe road use practices. “We are handing over the chat room created for this project to the LNP and other stakeholders, with hopes that they will continue the conversation and that everyone will take responsibility in spreading road safety awareness.”
With ongoing teamwork and unwavering commitment from all partners, PIH and its collaborators are hopeful that the positive momentum generated by this initiative will endure, ultimately making the roads in Maryland County safer for every resident and visitor.
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