Reckless driving, not poor roads, killing Namibians – Nekundi
Works and transport minister Veikko Nekundi says accidents on national roads have nothing to do with the road, but are instead caused by reckless and intolerant behaviour by drivers.
Nekundi was responding to questions from National Unity Democratic Organisation (Nudo) parliamentarian Vetaruhe Kandorozu, who asked whether the minister would take full responsibility for accidents on the B1 between Windhoek and Otavi for failing to provide a safe detour via the MR112 road between Okahandja and Okondjatu.
The minister said both the public and lawmakers should focus on promoting responsible driving if they genuinely care about road safety.
“Let’s educate our drivers not to overtake at blind spots. When another driver is overtaking in the face of oncoming traffic, the approaching driver must reduce speed immediately to allow the overtaking vehicle to return safely to its lane, rather than simply flashing their lights. Do not drive through red traffic lights. Do not turn right without due regard for both the vehicle behind you and oncoming traffic. Above all, do not buy licences – that is a straight ticket to road accidents,” he said.
He also urged the public to support road safety initiatives by the Ministry of Works and Transport (MWT).
“Support the MWT when it suspends or revokes driver licences in accordance with section 42(1)(b) of the Road Traffic and Transport Act. Support the ministry as it moves into the era of mandatory registration and accreditation of driving schools, and requires all prospective drivers to undergo compulsory training at accredited institutions,” he added.
Delayed upgrade
Nekundi said the upgrade of the MR112 between Okahandja and Okondjatu has been delayed due to funding constraints.
“As honourable members of this August House, we must appreciate the facts. This country is vast, and communities across Namibia need roads. Unfortunately, neither we nor anyone else can construct all the roads our people require within 36 years – it is simply not possible,” he said.
He assured Parliament that the Okahandja–Okondjatu road remains a government priority.
“Be assured, as I told the Okondjatu community last year, that the road will be upgraded to bitumen standard. Procurement for a consultant to undertake the detailed engineering designs began in 2025. All things being equal, we anticipate starting construction during the 2026/27 financial year,” Nekundi said.
Pedestrian deaths
Meanwhile, the Motor Vehicle Accident (MVA) Fund has revealed that 77% of pedestrians hit by vehicles in Namibia die at the scene, highlighting the severity of these crashes.
The fund’s senior manager for accident and injury prevention, Ruben Uupindi, said the figures point to the seriousness of pedestrian-related incidents.
“The severity could be due to high speed or other factors. Some victims also die in ambulances, although those numbers are not always clearly reflected,” he said.
By July last year, road fatalities had risen from 63 to 96 – a 52% increase. “If we do not change our road behaviour, we might see a 100% increase,” Uupindi warned.
Injuries increased by 8%, while total incidents rose by 13%. The number of women killed in road crashes more than doubled. “By this time last year, 11 women had died; this year it is already 23,” Uupindi said. Male fatalities also increased, from 52 to 73 – a 40% rise.
In 2024, pedestrians accounted for 32% of all crashes and 32% of all road deaths. Most incidents occurred between 6pm and midnight, although there is growing concern about crashes between 02:00 and 04:00. “About 70% of those involved during those hours were pedestrians,” Uupindi said.
He warned that 2025 could surpass 2024 in both crashes and fatalities if road behaviour does not improve. People aged 25 to 29 are the most affected, with pedestrian deaths rising sharply in this age group.
“These are productive citizens – the working population,” Uupindi said.
Khomas recorded the highest number of pedestrian crashes (439), while Kavango East had the highest proportion, with pedestrian cases accounting for 45% of all crashes in the region. Ohangwena and Zambezi followed.
