Brussels, 24th August 2022: Chargé d’affaires at the Embassy of Botswana Ms. Tebatso Baleseng met with Mr. Simon Modisaemang, President of the Africa Council for Touring and Automobile (ACTA) Sub Region which falls under the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA). The FIA is a governing body of motor sports and auto racing events such as Formula One. The FIA also promotes road safety around the world. Mr Modisaemang is currently in Brussels, Belgium attending the Formula 1 Belgian Grand Prix on 28th August 2022 and representing the ACTA Sub Region in his capacity as its President during the event.
The meeting provided an opportunity for Mr Modisaemang to share information about his role as President of the ACTA and how his engagements with the international community during meetings and events is beneficial to the Council as well as to Botswana. As a member of the FIA, the Africa Council for Touring and Automobile (ACTA) aims to support the exchange of best on issues of road safety, sustainable motoring, advocating for and protecting the rights of roads users, fostering freedom of mobility and encouraging sensible and sustainable tourism in Africa.
The meeting also discussed developments in Botswana such as the country’s readiness to harness the opportunities provided for in emerging technologies such as electronic vehicles and their related components. This is in light with the initiative to develop the electromobility industry in Botswana which aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The meeting further discussed the United Nations Road Safety Convention which serves as a foundation for states to build national legal frameworks which prevent death and injuries from road traffic crashes. The meeting noted that a strong regulatory framework is essential to managing road safety systems and Botswana’s accession to the UN Road Safety Convention will allow the country to effectively manage the National Road Safety Action Plan.
For her part, Ms. Baleseng shared that it is admirable to note that Botswana is represented at the highest level in the ACTA and reiterated that it is important for all stakeholders to support the initiatives that the Council continues to do in Botswana and beyond. She further informed the meeting that the Embassy will facilitate and assist with supporting ongoing initiatives through collaborations and engagements with stakeholders to share best practices.