Assessment of Helmet Utilization Among Commercial Motorcyclists and Passengers in Zanzibar Town

Abstract

Said Suleiman Bakari* and Abdulkadir Abdalla Haji

Motorcycle-related traffic accidents present a serious public health concern in Zanzibar, intensified by low helmet use among commercial riders and their passengers. Although helmet wearing is legally mandated and widely recognized as protective, compliance remains inconsistent, particularly among passengers. This study examined helmet use prevalence, knowledge, attitudes, and determinants in Zanzibar Town through a cross-sectional survey of 132 participants, analyzed using SPSS with chi-square tests. Results indicated that while all respondents acknowledged helmets’ protective role and 98.5% were aware of legal requirements, only 87.9% of riders and fewer than 10% of passengers consistently wore helmets. Usage was significantly associated with education, motorcycle ownership, and gender (p < 0.05). Cultural misconceptions and weak enforcement further limited adherence. The findings emphasize the importance of awareness campaigns, stronger enforcement, and accessible helmet distribution to improve road safety outcomes.

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