Between 15 November 2024 and 5 January 2025, Namibia experienced a concerning number of road incidents, with 472 crashes leading to 80 fatalities and 918 injuries, as reported by Deputy Commissioner Kauna Shikwambi of the Namibian Police.
The primary causes identified for these accidents include driver fatigue, drunk driving, speeding, reckless and negligent driving, and disregard for traffic regulations.
In response, law enforcement intensified efforts during the holiday season, issuing 1,867 warnings and over 12,000 summonses. Additionally, 657 vehicles were suspended from the roads for failing to meet safety standards. Deputy Commissioner Shikwambi emphasized the importance of adhering to traffic laws and urged drivers to prioritize safety to reduce road carnage.
The Motor Vehicle Accident (MVA) Fund of Namibia reported a 16% increase in motor vehicle crashes as of 17 November 2024, with 2,815 crashes compared to 2,434 in 2023. This rise underscores the need for continued vigilance and adherence to road safety measures.
The festive season road safety campaign, launched on 17 November 2024, will continue until 17 January 2025, focusing on high-risk highways such as the B1 and B2. Authorities are committed to reducing road fatalities and have called on all road users to contribute to safer roads by following traffic regulations and exercising caution.
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| The festive season road safety campaign |
As the holiday season concludes, Senior Inspector Simeon Hamakali of the Namibian Police Force expressed gratitude to road users for adhering to safety regulations and contributing to safer roads.
The Namibian Police Force, in collaboration with stakeholders, continues to enforce road safety measures to ensure the well-being of all citizens. Drivers are reminded to remain vigilant, avoid driving under the influence, and adhere to speed limits to prevent further tragedies on the nation's roads.