The journey to school in Africa can often be long and dangerous. In many places, there are no pavements, pedestrian walkways or proper lighting along main roads, making children particularly vulnerable to road accidents – especially after dark. The Safe Routes to School campaign aims to improve the safety of children (and not only children!) by equipping them with reflectors and educating them about the rules of the road.

How do we operate?

As part of the campaign, we organise the collection of reflectors, which go primarily to children attending schools in The Gambia. We donate reflective pendants, waistcoats and armbands, which significantly improve visibility on the road, especially after dusk.

We also organise educational workshops in schools and village communities, such as Buiba Mandinka, where we teach basic road safety rules. This helps the children know how to be visible and be careful in traffic.

Help for everyone

Although children are the main beneficiaries of the campaign, reflectors are also given to adults for whom visibility on the road is crucial. Support has already gone to motorcyclists from Riders Junction, who carry passengers on unlit routes, mechanics in Brikama, who often work late hours on busy roads, and artists from Brikama Craft Market, travelling to distribute their handicrafts to the port of Banjul (where wearing a reflective waistcoat is compulsory). Thanks to your donations, they can work and move more safely after dark.

What are we collecting?

With this campaign, we are primarily focusing on road safety related to proper lighting. Most needed are:

• reflective armbands and pendants,
• reflective waistcoats for children and adults,
• other reflective items that can be easily attached to backpacks, clothes or bicycles.

Any item that increases visibility on the road can save lives.

How can you help?

Join the campaign by donating reflectors – both new and used (in good condition). You can send them to the collection address we have indicated or contact us to arrange a convenient delivery method. If you are travelling to The Gambia, we invite you to participate in The Suitcase Action so that you can take the reflectors to Africa in person.

📧 foundation@readysteadygo.pl

Why is it worth it? 

Every reflector means more safety on the road. It’s not just a small item, but a real opportunity to reduce accidents and improve the lives of children, women or local motorcyclists.

Thanks to You, it has already been possible to equip many communities in The Gambia with reflectors. Your help will allow these activities to continue and reach where support is needed most.

Join us and make the road to school or the market safe for everyone!