Martin Endjala
The Motor Vehicle Accident Fund (MVA) in Namibia has expressed grave concern over the recent spike in road accidents, leading to the loss of 16 lives and numerous injuries last week.
“It is alarming that Namibia lost 16 lives and witnessed 89 injuries in just the past week due to road traffic crashes,” stated Rosalia Martins-Hausiku, the Fund’s Chief Executive Officer.
She revealed that from January 1 to 28, 2024, there were a total of 158 crashes, resulting in 335 injuries and 29 fatalities.
As the country transitions out of the festive period, Martins-Hausiku urges drivers to maintain safe driving practices and prioritize the safety of all road users.
She believes this is essential to prevent such calamities and to avoid further loss of lives on the roads.
“The safety of road users is paramount to the MVA Fund, as road crashes have devastating effects on families, communities, and the nation,” she stressed.
The Fund noticed that many crashes are predictable and preventable with conscientious driving, adherence to road traffic rules, and careful planning of long journeys, particularly avoiding night driving when visibility is limited.
Martins-Hausiku also reminded the public to report crashes using the Fund’s toll-free accident response number, 9682.
“Prompt reporting can save lives,” she added.
In a heartfelt gesture, the Fund extended condolences to the families affected by a tragic accident at Okashandja village on the gravel road between Ondangwa and Uukwiyuushona in the Oshana region last Friday.
This accident resulted in eight fatalities, including a couple, and left three others hospitalized, two in critical condition.
“The MVA Fund extends its deepest sympathies to the families affected by this tragic incident,” Martins-Hausiku said. She assured that the Fund’s Ongwediva service centre is prepared to provide necessary assistance, ensuring that the injured receive proper medical care and attention.
Family members of the affected are encouraged to contact the MVA Fund service centre in Ongwediva for information on funerals and other benefits provided by the Fund.
