Julia Alfeus
Tsumeb was the host for the launch of the 2024/2025 Africa Road Safety Day spearheaded by the National Road Safety Council (NRSC) on 17 November, 2024.
As part of the broader “World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims,” this event gathered stakeholders from various sectors to honour lives lost in road traffic accidents and advocate for improved road safety measures.
The event commenced with poignant remarks from Eugene Tendekule, executive secretary of the NRSC, who reflected on the purpose of the day: “The Africa Road Safety Day is not merely a date on the calendar; it is a call to action for every nation, a solemn reminder of the lives taken and the families forever affected by road traffic incidents.”
He emphasised that road safety should remain a priority in the quest for sustainable development, highlighting that “traffic accidents constitute a considerable expense to society.”
Africa Road Safety Day was established following the African Union’s endorsement of road safety initiatives, driven by the urgent need to combat rising traffic fatalities on the continent.
Tendekule reiterated this commitment: “We must hold hands to #DoTheRight ThingAndSaveLives as we remember our loved ones.”
Elifas !Owos-Oab, chairman of the National Road Safety Council, elevated the sombre mood: “Today gives us an opportunity to commemorate the victims of road accidents and those who went through the trauma. We pay tribute and affirm our communal responsibility towards safer roads.”
This sentiment resonated deeply throughout the gathering, encapsulating the shared grief and determination among attendees.
Horst Heimstadt, chief executive officer of the Namibian Road Safety Forum, highlighted the personal stories behind each statistic. “Every number represents a life filled with hopes and dreams, now reduced to memories,” he said.
He urged individuals, be they policymakers, drivers, or pedestrians to take personal responsibility for road safety. “No road in urban and peri-urban areas should be constructed without adequate safety measures for vulnerable users,” he insisted. Jonas Sheelongo, executive director in the works and transport ministry, provided insights into future initiatives.
He noted the Second Namibian Chapter of the Decade of Action for Road Safety would focus on strategic pillars aimed at improving road safety management across the country.
“The aim is to enhance the safety of Namibia’s roads and vehicles, ensuring that less people fall victim to needless road tragedies,” he stated.
Richard Banda, represented by Secilia Kaunatjike from the World Health Organisation, echoed similar sentiments.
“Road traffic accidents are preventable. As a nation, we need to strengthen our commitment to education, enforcement and community awareness,” he said, highlighting the need for a multi-disciplinary approach in tackling road safety issues.
The 2024/2025 Africa Road Safety Day is a vital reminder of the challenges in ensuring safe roads for all. Stakeholders reaffirmed their dedication to collective action, emphasising “No single person, organisation or stakeholder can solve this crisis alone.” The event was a powerful call for concerted efforts in safeguarding lives, fostering a commitment to turning the tide on road safety in Namibia and across Africa, especially during the festive season.
* Julia Alfeus is a member of the Opitimistc Media Group.