Health professionals have warned that the recent constant stream of negative news and occurances may be harmful and traumatising to the public.
A surge in tragic car accidents, rising cases of gender-based violence and shack fires involving children amongst others has become daily news – something experts warn might
affect the psyche of the general population. The incidents, reported consistently since mid-2025 highlighting various occurances, have created a pattern of near-daily tragedy that many citizens say is becoming overwhelming. Authorities and health professionals agree that while individual cases differ, the broader pattern of tragedy highlights the urgent need for preventative measures, community education and stronger emotional support systems.
With the festive season approaching, typically a high-risk period for accidents and domestic incidents, experts warn that failure to act could see the trend worsen.
Dr Cornelia Ndifon, a general practitioner with a special interest in women’s health, said the trend requires urgent scrutiny rather than dismissal as coincidence.
“If the negative news is coming frequently from news channels, something is happening. We need to summarise the types of incidents, check whether they are related, and ask if this happened at the same time last year,” stated Dr Ndifon.
“When we see a rise in accidents, violence or deaths, we need to dig deeper and ask what we are doing wrong,” she said.
Dr Ndifon noted that Namibia’s relatively good road infrastructure and low congestion make the recent fatal crashes particularly troubling.
“What is causing accidents that kill 14 people or seven people? Is it alcohol? Distracted driving? We need to find the root cause,” she said.
On gender-based violence, she warned that the severity and frequency of attacks point to deeper societal issues around anger, childhood upbringing and unresolved trauma.
She emphasised the importance of raising children to express emotion and show empathy.
“How are we raising our boys? Are we teaching them care, empathy and responsibility from a young age?” she asked.
She added that prevention must begin in households, schools and communities.
“Whenever bad news keeps coming, we must listen, identify the theme and then have conversations, whether through writing, television or radio, about what needs to change,” said the doctor.
In response to rising road fatalities, the Windhoek City Police urged drivers to prioritise safety ahead of the holiday travel season. Windhoek City Police Spokesperson Superintendent Marcelline Murapo encouraged motorists to plan their journeys, ensure vehicles are roadworthy and avoid driving when tired. “Maintain a safe following distance, stay alert, avoid distractions and never drink and drive,” she said.
“Everyone in the vehicle must be properly restrained. Patience and courtesy can save lives,” she added.