Minister takes aim at driving schools
The Minister of Works and Transport has directed the Namibian Transport Commission to prioritise the decriminalisation of minor traffic offences and strengthen the regulation of driving schools within the next six months.According to minister Veikko Nekundi, these reforms are long overdue and essential to restore discipline, professionalism and fairness on Namibia’s roads.
Speaking at the official inauguration of the new commission in Windhoek on Monday, Nekundi said the current legal framework still classifies minor road offences, such as vehicle overloading or expired documentation, as criminal acts - an outdated approach that no longer serves the public interest.
“We cannot have criminal offences under normal traffic regulations. Making overloading or transporting three cattle in a trailer a criminal offence does not make sense. I expect the new commission to ensure that the decriminalisation process is implemented without delay,” Nekundi said.
He added that a draft reform framework has already been developed and instructed the commission to oversee its full implementation within their six-month term. “My colleagues have already drawn up the framework. You must do your part to ensure we reach milestones in its implementation by the end of the year,” he urged.
Driving schools under scrutiny
Nekundi expressed concern over the growing number of unregulated driving schools, warning that poor training standards are producing undisciplined drivers. “We have many driving schools in this country, and there is nothing wrong with that. But to teach others, you must first be qualified. You cannot teach someone to drive if you yourself ignore red lights.”
The ministry will soon introduce a national qualification and licensing framework for driving instructors, ensuring that all are certified, registered, and periodically renewed. “Those who train others must be qualified and registered. Their conduct must reflect the discipline we expect on our roads,” Nekundi said, warning that the era of “anyone opening a driving school” is coming to an end.
Reforming public transport and licensing
The minister also urged the commission to professionalise the public transport sector, encouraging taxi and bus operators to formalise their businesses.
“If you drive a taxi, you must have a formal contract. You must be part of a registered entity whether it’s a sole proprietorship or a company, and comply with the social security and labour laws,” he said.
Nekundi added that this will enhance accountability, safety and social protection for both drivers and passengers.
He also called for urgent reform of the driver’s licence process, describing it as unacceptable that motorists wait months to receive their licences.
“We cannot have people waiting three or six months for a licence. This has to change. The process should not take more than four or five days,” he said.
Nekundi further emphasised the importance of driver fitness, urging operators to ensure only medically fit individuals take the wheel.
“You cannot let someone with epilepsy drive a truck. Operators must undergo regular medical check-ups. Safety must come first.”
A mandate for accountability
The minister reminded the new board of their obligations under the Road Traffic and Transport Act of 1999 and the Public Enterprises Governance Act of 2019, stressing transparency, integrity, and accountability.
“The Transport Commission bears the weighty responsibility of ensuring safe, efficient, and sustainable transport systems that drive Namibia’s economic growth,” he said.
Nekundi added that the success of their term would shape the future of the sector: “Your performance will determine whether Namibia achieves the modern, disciplined, and equitable transport system our people deserve.”
The new members of the Transport Commission of Namibia, appointed temporarily for six months, are Loini Shikale (Chairperson), Joe Shipepe, Johannes Thikusho, and Dr Helvi Petrus. – [email protected]