Allexer Namundjembo
The ministry of works and transport is reviewing outdated transport permits, some dating back to the 1970s.
By the fourth quarter of 2025, these will be replaced with renewable, owner-based permits tied to vehicle safety and service quality.
This was revealed by works and transport minister Veikko Nekundi during the Urban Mobility Conference on Thursday.
The conference hosted by the City of Windhoek was held under the theme “Driving Economic Growth through Urban Mobility”.
Nekundi also revealed plans to shift legal accountability for traffic fines from drivers to vehicle owners.
He said the ministry is working with international partners to prepare for a green shift in urban mobility.
“We must not play catch-up with the future. Let us lead,” he said.
He stressed that transport should not be viewed merely as movement but as a foundation for dignity, opportunity, and equity.
He criticises the historical neglect of urban transport in Namibia, saying mobility is essential for meaningful participation in economic and social life.
Nekundi pointed out that residents in areas like Havana, Otjomuise, and Katutura are forced to spend a large share of their income or time on transport due to limited public systems.
In response, he said the ministry is implementing reforms to modernise transport permits, improve public passenger systems, and expand infrastructure. He also expressed support for integrated ticketing systems and greener mobility solutions.
Nekundi called for national legislation that positions urban mobility as a key driver of development.
He urged collaboration across ministries, municipalities, and sectors to deliver affordable, safe, and inclusive transport for all Namibians.
The high-level event brought together government leaders, private sector innovators, development partners, academia, and civil society for discussions on transforming Namibia’s public transport system.
The conference aimed to identify sustainable and practical urban mobility solutions to support and accelerate national development.
At the same event, deputy minister of urban and rural development Evelyn !Nawases-Taeyele said urban mobility plays a vital role in national development, especially as growing populations in rural and urban areas place pressure on transport systems.
She highlighted that mobility affects access to services, economic growth, and quality of life.
!Nawases-Taeyele said many Namibians, particularly low-income communities, people with disabilities, and informal workers, face mobility challenges due to poor infrastructure and rising transport costs.
This, she explained, often affects their ability to reach workplaces, schools, markets, and health facilities.
!Nawases-Taeyele called for mobility to be treated as a basic right and integrated into spatial planning, budgeting, and decentralisation.
She said mobility supports vibrant local economies, creates jobs through infrastructure projects, and connects rural areas to national value chains.
!Nawases-Taeyele urged local and regional authorities to improve infrastructure for informal vendors and commuters, expand access to finance, provide training, and ensure that licensing and market access processes are inclusive and efficient.
