Mauritanian authorities have rolled out an artificial intelligence (AI)-based solution to automatically detect and record traffic violations in real time across the country’s entire road network. This initiative is part of broader efforts to integrate digital technologies into road safety management.
In its initial phase, the system targets two major violations: vehicle overloading, automatically detected when authorized weight limits are exceeded, and failure to wear seat belts, identified through smart cameras. The solution aims to modernize traffic monitoring through automatic alerts and structured data traceability, particularly during intercity travel.
However, it should be noted that the use of digital technologies for road safety in Mauritania remains in its early stages. The integration of a wider range of violations will be necessary to assess the system’s real impact on road safety. The potential of AI goes far beyond the mere detection of offenses.
For instance, the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) launched the “AI for Road Safety” initiative in 2021, promoting a “safe system” approach built around six pillars: road safety management, safer roads and mobility, safer vehicles, safer road users, post-crash response, and speed management.
According to the UN agency, AI can enhance the collection and analysis of accident data, provide insights to prevent collisions, and optimize post-crash responses, thereby contributing to the development of more effective regulatory frameworks.
