Technical Assistance to the African Road Safety Observatory (ARSO)

IRD Engineering, in partnership with SWEROAD as lead company, is providing Technical Assistance to support the establishment and operationalization of the African Road Safety Observatory (ARSO)—a key African Union initiative aimed at strengthening road safety governance, data systems, and policy implementation across the continent. ARSO serves as a regional platform enabling AU Member States to harmonize data collection, share best practices, and coordinate road safety strategies in line with the African Road Safety Charter and global commitments. The initiative builds on long-standing collaboration between the AU, EU, UNECA, SSATP, WHO, and the World Bank.

The project aims to establish a functional and resilient institutional structure for ARSO, enhance the quality and availability of road safety data, and support Member States in developing and implementing effective policies. It also promotes awareness, coordination and visibility of road safety initiatives, while building long-term capacity within AU institutions and national agencies.

Scope of Services

Acting as part of the ARSO Secretariat, the consortium provides comprehensive technical assistance by supporting institutional development and governance structures, strengthening visibility and outreach through communication tools and key regional events, and enhancing data systems through a centralized repository and coordinated analysis. The team also facilitates evidence-based policy development aligned with AU goals, delivers targeted capacity-building programmes for Member States, and ensures high-level coordination through the organization of ARSO General Assembly meetings and collaboration with international partners.