SWAKOPMUND – Erongo Red, Roads Authority (RA) and the Road Fund Administration (RFA) have teamed up to install streetlights at the Swakopmund bridge and key interchanges to enhance visibility along coastal roads.
Coastal roads are fog-prone and a major safety risk at times. This initiative aims to improve visibility for motorists and residents, reducing the risks posed by poor weather conditions, and enhancing the overall safety of the region.
The trio signed an agreement that will see over N$4 million injected into the project.
Erongo Red CEO Immanuel !Hanabeb said the project is more than just an infrastructure upgrade but a testament to the power of collaboration.
“By pooling our resources and expertise, Erongo Red, the RFA and RA have come together with a shared vision: to create a safer, more vibrant environment for our community and motorists,” he said on Wednesday.
He added that street lighting plays a crucial role in the community, as it goes beyond merely illuminating streets.
“For motorists, well-lit streets mean better visibility, reduced accidents and a smoother driving experience,” he noted.
He said Erongo Red has committed to covering N$1 million for the supply of necessary cables and a portion of the substation.
They will manage and oversee the completion of the project while also providing the streetlights, poles, LED luminaires and other essential equipment.
RA CEO Conrad Lutombi pointed out the safety benefits of the project.
“Here, at the coast, visibility is often severely affected, and we hope that installing streetlights at these interchanges will improve visibility and, consequently, enhance road safety,” he said.
He stated that the project signals a step forward in public-private partnerships to improve infrastructure.
He then appealed to the mining sector in the region, which stands to benefit from safer, more reliable roads to assist in this cause.
“We hope to engage the mining sector in discussions to collaborate on upgrading the infrastructure, especially along busy roads that are vital for the region’s economy,” he said.
Ali Ipinge, CEO of the RFA, echoed this sentiment, stating that collaboration between the public and private sectors is essential to achieving sustainable infrastructure development.
“In pursuit of our intention to support safety initiatives and lighting key interchanges, we thought of collaborating with Erongo Red and other stakeholders to enhance road safety. We need to bring the private sector on board as well,” he said.
He noted that the RFA is committed to making the best use of available resources, investing wisely in road infrastructure and maintenance, particularly in the Erongo region, which plays a crucial role in Namibia’s economy.
Erongo governor Neville Andre stated that this initiative is about more than just infrastructure, but the well-being of the community.
“Street lighting is an essential component of urban development. It provides a sense of security, making our roads and public spaces safer and more accessible at night,” the governor said.
He highlighted that the improved lighting would reduce road accidents and deter criminal activity, particularly the theft of copper and steel materials from the bridge.
The streetlight installation project is set to be completed by October.
-edeklerk@nepc.com.na
(streetlights)
caption: Light up… The Swakopmund bridge, where streetlights will be installed.
Photo: Eveline de Klerk