On 17 November 2024, Namibia joined the rest of Africa in commemorating Africa Road Safety Day and the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims in Tsumeb, Oshikoto Region. This significant event, observed on the third Sunday of November every year, highlights the urgent need for better road safety measures, the preservation of human life and support for those affected by road traffic crashes. It is a time to remember victims, advocate for improved post-crash responses, and take action to save lives across the continent. This year, Namibia honored those lost on the country’s roads, advocated for better support for victims, and promoted actions to save lives.  

Speaking on behalf of Dr. Richard Banda, WHO Representative in Namibia, Ms. Celia Kaunatjike highlighted the profound effects of road traffic crashes on families. These incidents often lead to the loss of breadwinners, pushing families into poverty due to the lifelong disabilities of survivors and the escalating costs of medical care. Ms. Kaunatjike urged all Namibians to adhere to key road safety measures that can prevent these tragedies. "Every one of us has a role in making roads safer for everyone, everywhere," she said. "Together, we can save lives and ensure safer roads for all, leaving no one behind," she concluded encouraging collective actions as the festive season approaches.

Africa faces a disproportionate burden of the global burden of road traffic deaths, accounting for 19% of global fatalities, despite representing just 15% of the global population and owing only 3% of the world’s vehicles. The African region has experienced a concerning 17% increase in fatalities since 2010, making it the only WHO region to see such a rise in road traffic deaths. While 17 African countries have successfully reduced road crashes fatalities by 49%, Africa still holds the highest fatality rate globally, with 19.4 deaths per 100,000 people.

In Namibia, road traffic crashes continue to be a significant public health issue. According to the MVA Fund, 423 people lost their lives in traffic crashes in 2023, representing 14 deaths per 100,000 people. Traffic crashes remain the leading cause of death among individuals aged 5 to 29 in Namibia. In addition, more than 5,000 people were injured in road traffic incidents, with 39% of those incidents resulting in fatalities. The MVA Fund is currently supporting over 240 seriously injured persons (SIPs), who require long-term care for life-changing injuries. The long-term effects on families, particularly the loss of support for thousands of dependents, many of whom are children are a tragic reality.

At he commemoration event, Mr. Jonas Sheelongo, Deputy Executive Director of the Transport Department at the Ministry of Works and Transport, emphasized that road traffic fatalities primarily affect young, productive individuals aged 16 to 35. Mr Sheelongo reaffirmed Namibia's commitment to improving road safety by aligning national initiatives with the Global Decade of Action for Road Safety and adopting international best practices. He emphasized the Ministry’s goal to enhance road safety through effective management and outlined a new strategy that aligns with government priorities. Mr. Sheelongo called on Namibians to support the government by uniting for road safety, stating, “Let us hold hands to save lives and remember those lost to road crashes,”.

In a gesture of remembrance, a tree planting ceremony was held to honor the victims of road accidents. This symbolic act represented the hope for a future with safer roads, serving as a living tribute to those whose lives have been tragically cut short.