Road Safety in Cameroon: Technology at the Heart of Discussions at the National Forum.

Public decision-makers, experts, civil society, and private sector stakeholders came together around a shared objective: exploring how intelligent technologies can help prevent accidents, improve traffic flow, and enhance the safety of road users across the countryʼs cities. 

In a context marked by rapid urbanization and increasing pressure on road infrastructure, discussions highlighted the need to adopt innovative approaches tailored to local realities. Speaking during a panel dedicated to these issues, Elodie Filopon, Public Policy Lead for Yango in Francophone Africa, emphasized that technology platforms now have concrete tools to contribute to safer mobility. She explained that real-time traffic analysis, combined with intelligent routing algorithms, not only optimizes journeys but also reduces usersʼ exposure to high-congestion areas, which are often associated with a higher risk of incidents. Her intervention drew on insights from a recent white paper published by Yango Group, highlighting the tangible impact of these technologies on urban mobility. In Cameroon, particularly in Yaoundé and Douala, the use of intelligent navigation systems is already helping to reduce travel times while easing traffic flow, thereby contributing to improved overall road safety. Beyond route optimization, Elodie Filopon also noted that these technological advancements are reflected in the user experience through integrated safety features within the application. Even before a ride begins, passengers can access driver identification details, including their photo, rating, and verification checks conducted on both the driver and the vehicle. During the trip, a safety center accessible directly within the app allows users to share their route in real time with trusted contacts, quickly reach authorities via a dedicated emergency button, or alert a specialized support team if needed. In addition, monitoring systems can detect risky behaviors such as speeding or unusual route deviations, enabling rapid intervention when necessary. Beyond technological solutions, discussions also emphasized the importance of shared responsibility among stakeholders. Elodie Filopon highlighted that sustainable improvements in road safety depend on close collaboration between public authorities, private companies, and road users themselves. She stressed the need to strengthen driver awareness, encourage the adoption of digital tools, and establish regulatory frameworks that support innovation. The participation of technology players in this forum reflects an evolving approach to road safety, where data and artificial intelligence complement traditional public policies. In a country like Cameroon, where challenges remain significant, these solutions could play a key role in transforming mobility habits and improving the daily safety of road users.