By Hassan Gbassay Koroma (Intern, SLRSA)
In a significant stride toward modernising traffic enforcement and enhancing transparency, the Sierra Leone Road Safety Authority (SLRSA) is rolling out a cutting-edge smart payment system tailored specifically for traffic offenders.
The Authority plans to introduce this state-of-the-art digital platform as part of its broader strategy to digitise operations and promote accountability across its enforcement framework. This move underscores SLRSA’s commitment to leveraging technology to improve service delivery and foster greater transparency within the traffic enforcement ecosystem.
Traditionally, traffic fines in Sierra Leone have been processed manually — a system often plagued by delays, inefficiencies, and limited transparency. However, the upcoming smart payment system aims to change that. It will allow offenders to pay their traffic fines online or through designated agents, significantly reducing time and bureaucracy. Importantly, the system also supports real-time tracking and automated record-keeping of all transactions.
Speaking during a training session organised for the Enforcement Corps on how to operate the new system, SLRSA Deputy Executive Director, Josie Abraham Scott-Manga, emphasised that it has long been the Authority’s vision to transition into the digital age.
“The management of the Authority has worked tirelessly to ensure that every sector within the Authority is digitised.
“The introduction of this handheld device and smart payment system will promote the smooth running of the enforcement team, as well as enhance transparency and accountability,” Scott-Manga said.
Director of Enforcement, Augustine Kaitongi, expressed enthusiasm about the new development, describing it as long overdue.
“The Authority has for a very long time been yearning for the introduction of such digital systems,” Kaitongi said.
He said the new platform will not just generate fine receipts it will also provide real-time data on traffic offences, help track vehicle records, increase revenue, and ensure more transparency in the enforcement process.
He stressed that the success of such innovative technology depends heavily on the skills of those operating it, hence the comprehensive training being given to the Corps.
“We need well-trained personnel to manage the system efficiently, which is why training is a key part of this rollout.
Also speaking at the session, the Chief Executive Officer of the Smart System Company, the technology partner implementing the project, highlighted the features and benefits of the new system.
“This platform will replace the need for physical ticket printing,” the CEO explained.
“It enables the Authority to track enforcement activities more accurately and provides daily data on various traffic offences. This level of data visibility is essential for planning and enforcement,” he said.
