SWAKOPMUND – Erongo region is among the six regions with the highest vehicle accidents in Namibia.
The region accounts for 10% of the accidents in the country, with injuries and fatalities accounting for 9% and 7%, respectively.
According to statistics provided by the Motor Vehicle Accident (MVA) Fund, the region for the past four years (2019 to 2022) recorded 1 119 road accidents, which resulted in 1 735 injuries and 125 fatalities.
These statistics were revealed during the official opening of the Case Management Conference, hosted by MVA in Swakopmund.
The conference is attended by SADC Sister Funds from Botswana,
South Africa and Eswatini.
The purpose of the conference is to share knowledge and experience in medical treatment, injury management and rehabilitation as well as long-term care of persons injured in motor vehicle accidents.
Speaking at the official opening of the conference, Erongo governor Neville Andre said statistics are alarming but that it is important to note that the region is a tourist destination; hence, the volume of vehicles on the region’s roads is very high, therefore increasing the risk of road crashes.
“These statistics are alarming and of great concern to all of us as a nation. It is even more saddening to learn that the majority of those involved in motor vehicle crashes are between the ages of 21-35 years. These are young people who are in the prime of their most productive years. It is, therefore, relevant that the MVA Funds in SADC are deliberating on a common cause to help clients on their rehabilitation journey and recovery after a motor vehicle crash,” Andre said.
Also speaking at the same event, CEO of MVA Rosalia Martins-Hausiku, stressed the importance of the conference, saying it focuses on client rehabilitation.
Therefore, she says, the objective of the conference is to share information on the latest case management techniques and practices, while at the same time identifying strategies required to better coordinate cooperation among stakeholders.
“Our key responsibility is delivering quality services to our customers with an uncompromising commitment to enhancing customer experience through tailored services while empowering them to return to a meaning full life.”