28/05/2025
WoGeS Assessment of Unsafe Road Users in Liberia (2008-2010)
Introduction
Liberia, a nation with over 200 years of leadership modeled after the United States, began experiencing economic and social growth following the 2005 election of Africa’s first female president, Madam Ellen Johnson Sirleaf. Investments and reforms spanned various sectors, including transportation.
One notable development was the rise of Chinese-made motorcycles, commonly called Pem-Pem—a name derived from the reckless honking of their horns. These motorcycles quickly became a primary mode of transportation, offering higher fares than traditional taxis.
Despite their economic benefits, Pem-Pem motorcycles contributed to a growing public safety crisis. Thousands of people, particularly children and young adults, were injured or killed due to unsafe driving practices. Many of these drivers were self-taught, leading to frequent accidents involving pedestrians and other vehicles.
Recognizing the severity of the issue, the Liberian government, under President Sirleaf, established the first-ever Motorcycle Operation Policy on August 14, 2008, to regulate the use of Pem-Pem motorcycles.
Additionally, Liberia’s transition from a government-centric model to a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) approach allowed private sector involvement in national development. In response, WoGeS in May 2008 invested in Human Resource Development (HRD) as a vital asset in rebuilding Liberia.
For more information, visit:
• Government of Liberia
• Ministry of Transport
Who We Are
WoGeS is a coalition of drivers, pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists committed to promoting road safety awareness and training. Established in response to rising traffic accidents, our team consists of retired police officers and veteran drivers dedicated to reducing fatalities.
Primary Objectives
Our goal is to ensure ALL road users:
1. Obtain proper training and licensing.
2. Wear protective gear and seat belts.
3. Drive sober and within their limits.
4. Adopt lifelong learning in road safety.
5. Understand their responsibilities to fellow road users.
Primary Vision
1. Collaborate with the Government of Liberia to educate the public on vehicle and traffic policies.
2. Engage key stakeholders—including the Ministry of Justice (MOJ), Ministry of Transport (MOT), corporate partners, veteran riders, vehicle dealers, and unions—to promote road safety.
3. Advocate for government-funded safety programs through legislation.
4. Work with local partners to approve a national training curriculum.
5. Establish National Road Users Safety Week each October to raise awareness.
Challenges in Liberia’s Traffic Safety Sector
Between 2008 and 2009, WoGeS conducted an assessment in 10 of Liberia’s 15 counties, surveying 50 road users across different demographics. The study included:
• Pem-Pem riders
• Pedestrians
• Bicycle riders
• Car drivers
• Officials from the Liberia National Police, Ministry of Justice, Ministry of Transport, and Ministry of Health.
Key findings:
1. 90% of vehicle operators (cars, bicycles, and motorcycles) are self-taught.
2. 95% of road users lack awareness of their responsibilities.
3. 90% of drivers do not understand Liberia’s traffic laws due to limited information dissemination.
4. 85% of road users have minimal knowledge of insurance.
5. The government lacks a centralized record system for tracking road incidents and vehicle statistics.
6. Vehicle driver training facilities use different curriculums, leading to inconsistencies.
7. Government-issued licenses are frequently misused, with non-drivers obtaining them without proper evaluation.
Recommended Actions:
1. Enforce traffic safety legislation to protect road users.
2. Approve and implement a standardized driver training curriculum.
3. Provide the necessary logistics to enhance efficiency within traffic enforcement agencies.
4. Encourage insurance companies to advertise and educate the public on insurance benefits.
5. Require all vehicle operators to undergo at least 36 hours of road safety training following international standards.
6. Integrate road safety education into Liberia’s school curriculum to reduce future accidents.
7. Government works closely with civil society to improve public safety.
WoGeS' Intervention:
After years of research and consultation with international road safety organizations, WoGeS structured its programs according to International Standard Operating Procedures (ISOP). Our approach consists of four strategic phases:
1. Engage stakeholders in the sector for collaboration.
2. Investigate traffic safety issues and recommend solutions.
3. Launch a nationwide awareness campaign via radio, TV, and online platforms.
4. Implement a practical training program for vehicle operators across Liberia.
WoGeS Tradition:
At WoGeS, we deeply value the individuals and institutions that support our mission and vision. As we continue our journey, we remain committed to recognizing and appreciating those who have encouraged us along the way.
We express our gratitude to:
• The United States Embassy in Liberia
• Authorities of the counties we visited
• Madam Cynthia B. Nash, Liberian Consul General, USA
• Cllr. Munah Sieh Browne & the LNP family
• Hon. Alphonso Gaye & the MOT family
• Hon. Ledgerhood Rennie & the LBS family
• The Mayor & Paynesville City Council
• Mr. T-Wehtoe Sungbeh, The Liberian Dialogue, USA
• Mr. Jerry Bola Soe, USA
• Mr. & Mrs. William Bill Findley
• Retired LNP Officers
• Renaissance Corporation TV & Truth FM
• Radio Advent
• Mr. Williamson Choloh, USA
• Mr. Harry P. Mason Jr., USA
• Mr. Samuel Robert Wahmah
• And many others whose contributions we hold dear.
Our Contacts:
If you’d like to connect with us, here’s how:
• Philip E.P. Woods, II – Founder/CEO
📞 +231-6-510-178 / +12673669973
• Rtd. Col. Alfred S. Moses – Consultant & Former Chief of Traffic, Liberia
📞 +231-6-515-388
• Emmanuel & Bendu Ellis – Office Representatives
📞 +231-77-750-007 / +231-6-731-010
• ✉ Email: [email protected]
• 🌐 Website: www.wogesinc.com
• 📱 Facebook: WoGeS Vehicle N Motorcycle Safety Training Services.
Our Commitment:
Without the support of our partners and advocates, our mission would not be possible.
Together, we strive to create a safer environment for all road users.
