WALVIS BAY -The Dr Hifikepunye Pohamba Freeway, also known as MR 44, was officially opened on Friday. The new 42-kilometre dual carriageway connects Walvis Bay and Swakopmund, easing traffic congestion and improving road safety. This dual carriageway forms part of the Trans-Kalahari, Trans-Kunene and Trans-Zambezi highway road network as it connects the coastal towns to the rest of the country.
Inaugurating the freeway on Friday, President Nangolo Mbumba said the road is a symbol of Namibia’s progress and economic growth.
“I am proud and honoured to officiate over the freeway, as there is no one more worthy than Pohamba to have this road named after him. The amount of walking he did during the liberation struggle to bring others to safety makes it more rewarding,” he said.
The President said the freeway is also a significant boost as it is part of the broader road network that links Namibia to neighbouring countries through key transport corridors such as the Trans-Kalahari and Walvis Bay-Ndola-Lubumbashi Development Corridor.
“I am happy to note that Phase 2 of the project will include the extension of the road leading to the Walvis Bay traffic circle. This upgrade will be completed by mid-2025. Additionally, the Main Road 54 (Coastal Road) will be upgraded into a dual carriageway, with construction set to start in April next year,” the President said.
Erongo governor Neville Andre applauded government for continuously improving road infrastructure.
“This freeway is more than just a road; it is an economic lifeline. Roads are the veins through which the economy flows – connecting businesses, facilitating trade, and linking our people to opportunities,” he said.
Andre acknowledged the high cost of maintaining and upgrading roads, but pointed out the importance of safety and development.
“Today, Namibia is known for having some of the best roads in Africa, but this comes at a cost. I remember how dangerous the B2 road between Swakopmund and Walvis Bay used to be. Many lives were lost due to congestion, but now, we can say the road is safer,” Andre added.
Roads Authority board chairperson, Lilly Brand, highlighted the project’s role in positioning Namibia as a regional logistics hub, adding that the Roads Authority remains committed to maintaining and improving the country’s road network.
“As a developing country, Namibia must continuously position its economy favourably and make it competitive at regional and international levels. A safe and efficient transport system strengthens our advantage in the region,” Brand said.
She explained that the first phase of the project, which started in 2016, cost N$1 billion, while the extension, completed in October 2024, cost N$827 million. Local suppliers and subcontractors benefited from N$200 million, and approximately 650 jobs were created during construction.
“This freeway will help reduce road accidents. Heavy trucks will no longer have to use the coastal road, making travel between Swakopmund and Walvis Bay safer for all road users,” she said.
-edeklerk@nepc.com.na