Speed limits play a crucial role in road safety, helping to regulate traffic flow and reduce accidents. Across Africa, different countries have varying speed regulations, but recent changes in South Africa have sparked debate. With new speed limits set to take effect in July 2025, many are questioning whether South Africa is falling behind in road safety compared to Ghana, Nigeria, DR Congo, and Algeria.
South Africa’s new speed limits
South Africa is implementing stricter speed limits in an effort to curb road accidents. The new regulations will see urban speed limits reduced from 60 km/h to 50 km/h, rural roads from 100 km/h to 80 km/h, and highways from 120 km/h to 110 km/h. School zones will also have a strict limit of 30 km/h during school hours. These changes come in response to alarming statistics, with South Africa recording over 12,500 road deaths in 2023, making it one of the most dangerous countries for drivers.
However, the Automobile Association of South Africa (AA) has expressed concern over a blanket reduction in speed limits. The AA does not support the Road Traffic Management Corporation’s (RTMC) proposal from February 2022 to reduce national speed limits by 10 km/h, arguing that road safety needs a broader and more comprehensive strategy. According to the AA, “While we appreciate the RTMC’s commitment to reducing road fatalities and enhancing public safety, we believe that any such changes must be underpinned by a more holistic and evidence-based approach.”
Comparing speed Limits across Africa
Speed regulations vary across African nations but generally fall within common ranges based on road types. According to Business Insider Africa, Algeria has the highest highway speed limit at 120 km/h, while South Africa is lowering its maximum speed to 110 km/h. Ghana, Nigeria, and DR Congo have similar speed limits, but enforcement remains a challenge.
In Ghana, urban speed limits range between 50 and 60 km/h, rural roads between 80 and 100 km/h, and highways between 100 and 120 km/h, as reported by the World Health Organization. Nigeria follows a similar pattern, with urban roads capped at 50 to 60 km/h, rural roads at 80 to 100 km/h, and highways at 100 to 120 km/h. DR Congo has slightly lower highway limits at 110 km/h, while Algeria maintains a maximum of 120 km/h on highways.
Despite these regulations, enforcement remains a significant issue across the continent. Many African countries struggle with poor road conditions, inadequate law enforcement, and a lack of public awareness. In many parts of Africa, roads are in poor condition, with potholes, faded markings, and a lack of traffic signs. This not only makes it difficult for drivers to adhere to speed limits but also increases the likelihood of accidents.
Road safety concerns
South Africa’s decision to lower speed limits is based on high accident rates and poor road safety rankings. A recent report ranked South Africa last in road safety, with 57.5% of road deaths linked to alcohol consumption. Other concerns include low seatbelt usage, high-speed crashes due to reckless driving, and poor road conditions in rural areas.
Meanwhile, Ghana, Nigeria, DR Congo, and Algeria also struggle with enforcement. Many drivers ignore speed limits due to poor road conditions, weak law enforcement, and lack of awareness. In Nigeria, for example, traffic police departments lack sufficient resources, such as speed cameras and patrol vehicles, to monitor roads effectively. Similarly, Ghana faces challenges with public awareness, as many drivers receive little formal education on road safety and speed regulations.
Is South Africa falling behind?
South Africa’s new speed limits aim to reduce accidents and improve safety, but some critics argue that better enforcement and road improvements are more important than lowering speed limits. Other African countries face similar challenges, but South Africa’s strict new laws could set an example for the rest of the continent.
While speed limits are an essential aspect of road safety, enforcement remains the key issue. Without proper monitoring, stricter penalties, and improved road conditions, drivers across Africa will continue to disregard regulations. The debate continues on whether South Africa’s approach will lead to safer roads or if enforcement should be the primary focus.
