Former Second National Vice Chairperson of the Convention People’s Party (CPP), Hajia Hamdatu, has emphasized the need for mental health assessments for drivers across the country.
According to her, mental health is a critical but often overlooked factor contributing to the alarming number of road accidents in Ghana.
Speaking on Angel FM’s Morning Show with Saddick Adams on Wednesday, October 1, Hajia Hamdatu suggested that commercial drivers in particular should undergo mandatory mental health check-ups before being permitted to sit behind the steering wheel.
Her comments follow the release of a recent survey, which revealed that more than 10,000 people have lost their lives through road accidents in Ghana, while over 2,000 others are currently battling for their lives in hospitals nationwide.
Hajia Hamdatu noted that while issues such as poor road infrastructure, indiscipline among drivers, and vehicle maintenance often dominate discussions, the psychological state of drivers is rarely considered. She argued that stress, depression, and other mental health challenges could impair judgment, slow reaction times, and heighten the risk of fatal crashes.
She therefore urged authorities, including the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) and other transport unions, to collaborate with health professionals to introduce regular mental health screenings as part of driver licensing requirements.
“Just as we check eyesight and other medical conditions, we must also check the state of mind of drivers. A mentally unstable driver can cause more harm than a faulty vehicle,” she stated.
Road traffic accidents remain a major public health challenge in Ghana, and her call adds to the growing voices demanding a more holistic approach to tackling the menace.
credit: Angel FM
