By: Josia Shigwedha

For the first time in history, Namibia has recorded a reduction in road crashes, fatalities, and serious injuries. According to Khomas regional police commander, Commissioner Willem Steenkamp, road crashes reduced by 14.4 percent, injuries by 17.5 percent, and fatalities by 42.2 percent.

Speaking during the launch of the 2023/2024 road safety campaign, Khomas regional police commander, commissioner Willem Steenkamp stated that there has been a reduction in road crashes, injuries, and fatalities compared to the same period last year.

Steenkamp said that statistics recorded from 1st of January to 12 November, indicate that 2553 crashes were recorded, while 4508 were injuries and 357 fatalities.

Steenkamp was speaking on behalf of the Inspector General, Joseph Shikongo, during the launch of the campaign at the Windhoek-Okahandja road block today.

“In comparison with the same period last year, a decrease of 4% in crashes was observed with 2658 cases; injuries also decreased with 1% having recorded 4471 cases; whereas, fatalities increased by 9% with 392 cases,” said Steenkamp.

Meanwhile, speaking during the launch of the Oshana regional festive season road safety campaign, the police regional commander, Naftal Sackaria, explained that the business owners will only be permitted to trade on public holiday holidays in accordance with the time specified in their license.

“I want to be clear here that the Namibian Police is on the side of the business communities. We want people to sell and take advantage of the festive season when people come or go back home to do business. Thus, it must be done in line with our laws. I must also be clear that to demonstrate the growth of our economy, we shall allow liquor outlets to conduct business as per their trading license’s,” stated Sackaria.

He added that they have made enough inquiry in the liquor Act, and it does not prevent liquor trading on public holidays,” stated Sackaria. The Police further urge motorists to adhere to the rules and regulations of the road when travelling this festive season.

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