Every day, in Cameroon, over 400 buses crisscross the country, carrying precious cargo: the lives of thousands of passengers. And thanks to an inconspicuous partnership between MTN and the government, these journeys are becoming significantly safer.

Since 2022, an artificial intelligence (AI)-powered system has been discreetly working behind the scenes on inter-city highways, monitoring these buses from a central control centre. MTN, in collaboration with the Ministry of Transport and local fleet management specialist CAMTRACK, provides the essential connectivity that allows this innovative system to function seamlessly.

Ym@ne Driver: Technology with a Human Touch

The Ym@ne Driver system is more than just a collection of cameras and sensors; it's a watchful eye that prioritises human safety. It monitors driver behaviour, alerting them to potential hazards and discouraging unsafe practices like speeding, distracted driving, and fatigue.

On-board cameras provide a comprehensive view of the road ahead, detecting risks such as incorrectly parked vehicles or unexpected obstacles. Information is relayed to drivers through loudspeakers, minimising distractions and allowing them to focus on safe navigation. The system also alerts law enforcement officers to potential dangers, enabling rapid response and further enhancing road safety.

Real Impact, Real Lives

The impact of Ym@ne Driver is not just theoretical; it's measurable in lives saved. According to Franck Kom, MTN Cameroon’s General Manager of the Enterprise Business Unit, "When I take the highway and I see the cameras on buses, I know the people on board are safe, and it makes me proud that MTN contributes to it."

This sentiment is backed by concrete data. In March 2024, the Ministry of Transport reported a significant reduction in highway fatalities since the system's implementation in 2022, with zero casualties recorded on buses equipped with Ym@ne Driver.

Towards a Safer Future on the Roads

MTN's involvement with this initiative reflects a deeper commitment to working alongside partners like the Ministry of Transport and CAMTRACK, not just to protect the well-being of communities today but to contribute to a broader, long-term vision of road safety in Cameroon. This commitment goes beyond supplying the technological infrastructure; it's about understanding the human cost of road accidents and recognising the role that technology can play in mitigating those risks.

By supporting the expansion of this technology to encompass all inter-city buses, trucks, and commercial passenger vehicles, MTN is helping to pave the way for a future where Cameroon's roads are safer for everyone. This commitment to road safety aligns with MTN's wider dedication to sustainable development across its operational footprint. It's about investing in the future of the nation, recognising that safer roads lead to stronger communities and a more prosperous economy.