- Road accidents claim over 400 lives in 2025
- President calls for road safety as festive season begins
TIRI MASAWI
The Motor Vehicle Accident (MVA) Fund has spent about N$212 million this financial year on accident-related payments compared to N$139 million in the same period last year.
The money was spent on injury grants, funeral grants, medical benefits, loss of income, and loss of support.
Since January 2025, over 400 people have died in road accidents, highlighting the urgent need for improved road safety.
MVA Fund spokesperson John Haufiku told the Namibia Business Review this week that the rise in crashes is worrisome and costly.
“This speaks to an increase in crashes, which is concerning. It means our road users are not abiding by the rules and are not driving with due care and consideration,” Haufiku said. He added that the Fund is working closely with the police to increase visibility and engage with road users, reminding them to drive carefully during the peak festive travel period.
The Motor Vehicle Accident (MVA) Fund of Namibia was established in 1990 to provide assistance and benefits to those injured in motor vehicle accidents and to the dependents of those killed in such incidents.
President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has this week made a passionate appeal to Namibians to avoid driving under the influence of alcohol as the festive season approaches.
In her annual festive season message, Nandi-Ndaitwah called on citizens to look to the future with hope, unity, and responsibility.
“Let us remember that our roads are a shared space, and the decisions we make can save lives. This is a precious time to be with our children,” she said.
She urged Namibians to respect traffic rules and use the country’s roads responsibly to prevent unnecessary loss of life.
“As we welcome the festive season, I extend heartfelt wishes to every citizen. May you cherish moments with your loved ones and look to the future with hope and responsibility,” the President said.
“As we travel to our various destinations, let us remember that one life lost on our roads is one life too many. Let us not drink and drive, wear our seatbelts, obey speed limits, and stay alert behind the wheel. Pedestrians are also urged to be cautious on the roads, especially after dark,” she added.
She also encouraged Namibians to celebrate responsibly and extend support to those in need.
“This is a time to spend with your children, nurture them and teach them our values. In the event of accidents, please contact the MVA Fund. May this festive season bring peace, happiness, and strength,” Nandi-Ndaitwah said.MVA Fund Chief Executive Officer Rosalia Martins-Hausiku said that road safety is a shared responsibility.“The aim is to arrive alive. Statistics show that 70% of accidents on Namibian roads are caused by road user behaviour, including driving under the influence of alcohol,” she said.
Martins-Hausiku urged all drivers to exercise caution.“We should, as Namibians, play our part in making our roads safer. Road safety remains a joint responsibility,” she said.
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