Addis Ababa Traffic Violations Fall to 45% Amid Stricter Enforcement

July 22, 2026
By Mintesinot Nigussie

The number of drivers engaging in risky road behaviours declined across several categories in Addis Ababa during the 2025/26 fiscal year, with authorities reporting reductions in drink-driving, mobile phone use and seat belt violations following intensified traffic enforcement. The Addis Ababa Traffic Management Authority said the proportion of road users found violating traffic rules dropped to 45 percent from 53 percent in the previous fiscal year, attributing the improvement to strengthened enforcement supported by public awareness efforts, EBS TV reported.

Alcohol-related driving offences recorded one of the notable declines, with the number of motorists caught driving after consuming alcohol falling to 3,356 in 2025/26 from more than 4,236 in 2024/25. The authority also reported a reduction in distracted driving offences. A total of 10,334 drivers were found using mobile phones while driving during the fiscal year, marking a 7.5 percent decrease compared with the previous year.

Seat belt compliance also improved, with 3,172 drivers recorded for failing to wear safety belts or failing to ensure passengers were properly restrained. The figure represented a 41 percent decline from the previous fiscal year. While violations among motorists decreased, pedestrian behaviour remained a challenge. The authority said 60,842 pedestrians were recorded failing to use designated walkways in areas where pedestrian infrastructure was available.

The traffic authority said the combined use of awareness campaigns and stricter controls has helped improve compliance among road users and reduce violations across the capital. This progress is expected to contribute to safer roads and fewer accidents in the city.

The authority continues to encourage both drivers and pedestrians to follow traffic rules to maintain and build upon the recent improvements in road safety.

Source: FSX Business News