“Life is a sacred gift”: Angolan Catholic Archbishop Demands Action amid Surge in Road Accidents

“Irresponsible conduct behind the wheel manifests itself through excessive speed and the consumption of alcoholic beverages while driving,” Archbishop Dias said.

He also criticized transport companies that fail to ensure drivers observe mandatory rest periods during long journeys, warning that fatigue increases the risk of serious accidents.

“The fundamental priority in road safety must focus on the moral and civic formation of drivers of both public and private transport,” he said.

Archbishop Dias urged authorities to exercise “strict control over the issuance of driving licences,” including by assessing “the ethical profile of applicants.”

He also called for tighter oversight of motorcycle taxis, acknowledging the essential transport services they provide while emphasizing the need for greater road discipline.

“Although motorcycle taxis provide an important service to the population, it is urgent to strictly regulate and discipline their movement on the roads,” the Archbishop of Luanda said.

Describing the growing number of road deaths as a humanitarian concern, Archbishop Dias said preventive measures should go beyond responding to individual tragedies after they occur.

“The humanitarian impact of the tragic record of deaths in the region places Angola in an alarming situation, requiring permanent preventive action by the competent authorities,” he said.

The Angolan Catholic Church leader emphasized, “Life is a sacred gift, and we cannot limit ourselves to mourning after accidents have occurred.”

His appeal followed a series of serious road accidents recorded across Angola between August 3 and 9.