The Government of China donates 2,000 helmets to the Liberian National Police to boost public safety in Liberia.
By Kruah Thompson
Monrovia, Liberia December 23, 2024 – The Chinese Embassy in Liberia donates 2,000 pieces of motorcycle safety helmets to the Liberia National Police (LNP).
The donation ceremony, which took place here on Monday, December 23, at the LNP headquarters in Monrovia, aims to help improve road safety and raise awareness about the importance of traffic safety across Liberia.
Chinese Ambassador to Liberia, Yin Chainwal, emphasizes the importance of motorcyclists in Liberia’s transportation system while noting the high risks they face in the traffic.
“Every year, many accidents occur due to a lack of proper safety measures. A helmet is one of the simplest and most effective tools to protect riders from serious injuries,” Ambassador Yin states.
He explains that the donation of the helmets is a demonstration of the strong partnership between Liberia and China, which has grown significantly since both nations elevated their relationship to a strategic partnership during the recent British Summit.
“We have been working together in multiple sectors, including infrastructure, education, and health, to improve the lives of Liberians,” the ambassador says, and adds, “This donation aims to enhance traffic safety in Liberia, ensuring citizens can enjoy a happy and safe life.”
Ambassador Yin also stresses that public safety remains a top priority and that a safe and efficient transportation system is vital not only for Liberia’s economic growth but also for the well-being of its citizens.
Liberia National Police Inspector General Gregory O.W. Coleman expresses gratitude to the Chinese government for its continued support in promoting peace and security in Liberia.
He highlights the importance of traffic safety, particularly during the festive season when road usage tends to increase.
“Our intent with the road safety campaign is not to punish anyone but to keep people safe,” Coleman notes. “We focus on education rather than enforcement, but we hope safety becomes a way of life for everyone.”
The LNP announces that the helmets would be distributed immediately, with some allocated to the leadership of the Motorcycle Union for further dissemination.
He adds that the portion remaining with the police will be distributed during their road safety awareness campaign, which begins today, December 24, 2024.
Furthermore, the Minister of Justice and Attorney General, Cllr. N. Oswald Tweh, praises the donation and urges everyone to adhere to traffic laws.
Minister Tweh says the donation aligns with the Liberian government’s development agenda and President Boakai’s focus on public safety.
According to him, the reason they continue to emphasize the importance of motorcyclists abiding by laws and regulations set by the Liberia National Police is because motorcycles are highly vulnerable in the streets. Riders can easily get injured without proper protection.
He explains that while wearing a helmet may not prevent all injuries, it significantly increases the likelihood of saving lives in the event of an accident.
Additionally, the President of the Motorcycle Union of Liberia, John Cayon, expresses appreciation for the donation and the recognition of motorcyclists’ safety needs.
However, he highlights that over 350,000 motorcyclists across Liberia are appealing for additional support.
According to him, they understand the risks involved in riding without safety gear, so they have decided to cooperate with the police by adhering to traffic regulations.
Mr. Cayon requests the Chinese Ambassador to assist the union by providing scholarships to help its members further their education.
“Motorcycle riding is not just a career; it’s a stepping stone to better our lives,” Cayon notes. He also calls on the Chinese Embassy to provide scholarships for motorcyclists, noting that many riders seek opportunities to improve their circumstances.
“We will be coming to your doorstep to request scholarships, and I hope you listen closely,” he says.
Amid severe joblessness here, Liberian youths, who constitute about 60 percent of the population, turn to motorcycle and tricycle taxis for survival. Editing by Jonathan Browne
