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Injuries and violence take the lives of some 12,000 people around the world each day. Of the 4.48 million annual injury-related deaths, roughly 1 in 3 result from road traffic crashes, 1 in 6 from suicide, 1 in 9 from homicide and 1 in 36 from war and conflict. In addition to those injury-related killers are drowning, falls, burns and poisoning, among others.

Beyond fatalities, tens of millions of people suffer non-fatal injuries each year which lead to emergency department visits, hospitalizations and treatment by general practitioners. These incidents often result in temporary or permanent disability and the need for long-term physical and mental health care and rehabilitation. Injuries and violence are responsible for an estimated 6.3% of all years lived with disability.

Most of these deaths and injuries could be prevented. The 16th World Conference on Injury Prevention and Safety Promotion (Safety 2026), which takes place in Cape Town, South Africa from 2-4 September 2026, will serve as a forum for sharing compelling scientific evidence for what works to prevent injuries and violence and promote equity and sustainability. Safety 2026 is hosted by the Foundation for Professional Development, co-hosted by the South African Medical Research Council and co-sponsored by the World Health Organization.

Safety 2026’s theme, “Ubuntu: United for a Safer Future” highlights that in this complex and challenging time for humanity, we need to come together as injury and violence prevention researchers, practitioners and advocates to build safe and just societies. Together we are #Ubuntu4Safety.

As we work together to ensure the success and vision of Safety 2026

·      Register to attend Safety 2026

·      Promote Safety 2026 among your networks

·      Submit an abstract for Safety 2026 by 31 January 2026

·      Become a Safety 2026 partner

·      Share updates on Safety 2026 on social media

For the latest information about preparations for Safety 2026, visit: https://worldsafety.co.za