The Ministry of Transportation (VMT) in El Salvador has reported an 18% reduction in child fatalities resulting from road accidents nationwide, compared to the same period in 2023. According to Nelson Reyes, the Minister of Transportation, this decline is attributed to concerted efforts in preventative measures and collaborative initiatives.
Reyes disclosed the encouraging figures during the announcement of the upcoming 5th edition of the International Child Road Safety Forum (FISEVI 2024), scheduled to take place in El Salvador on April 10th, 11th, and 12th. As of now, nine children have tragically lost their lives due to road accidents, a decrease from the 11 fatalities recorded during the same timeframe last year.
“Thanks to all preventive actions and coordinated efforts, as reported by the Road Safety Observatory (Onasevi), we have witnessed a positive trend. An 18% reduction in child fatalities resulting from road accidents has been recorded in the 2023-2024 comparative analysis,” stated Deputy Minister Nelson Reyes.
The announcement of FISEVI 2024 also highlighted the collaborative efforts of the Ministry of Transportation (VMT), the Fund for the Assistance to Victims of Traffic Accidents (Fonat), the National Road Safety Council (Conasevi), and Onasevi. Acknowledging the support from the Embassy of Uruguay, the Salvadoran Agency for International Cooperation (ESCO), and the collaboration with the Rodrigo González Foundation of Uruguay, the event is a part of the South-South cooperation strategy between Uruguay and El Salvador.
Previous editions of the forum have taken place in countries like Uruguay, Chile, Argentina, and Colombia. Since assuming the responsibility of hosting FISEVI, El Salvador has undergone significant learning and collaboration with international experts, strengthening various aspects of their road safety initiatives.
“We have been working to coordinate efforts and become the host country for the fifth edition of the International Child Road Safety Forum,” stated Paola Bardi, the Director of Fonat.
Deputy Minister Reyes emphasized El Salvador’s role as the host of this international event, where over 60 presentations are expected. This gathering aims to reaffirm the government’s commitment to tirelessly work towards reducing road accident rates. El Salvador’s dedication to addressing road safety concerns on an international stage marks a significant milestone in their ongoing efforts.