Minister of Works and Transport, John Mutorwa, emphasised that the effective practical implementation of the Second Decade of Action for Road Safety 2021-2030 will only be achieved through robust collaboration and cooperation among stakeholders.
Speaking at the launch of the Festive Season Road Safety Campaign in Swakopmund on Friday, Mutorwa highlighted the significance of the goals, targets, and objectives embedded and articulated in the Second Decade of Action for Road Safety.
‘This action plan should not merely exist on paper; it should be tangibly translated into projects and programmes, aiming to significantly enhance the socio-economic, educational, and cultural well-being of Namibians, residents, and visitors to our country,’ the minister said.
Conrad Lutombi, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Roads Authority, expressed concern about the rising prevalence of fraudulent activities involving fake driving licenses and vehicle license discs within the community.
According to Lutombi, officials wil
l be deployed during this festive campaign, equipped with special instruments to urgently address this issue. He cautioned drivers to ensure all their documentation is in order to avoid potential consequences.
‘In addition, our Mobile Vehicle Testing Station will be utilised at various roadblocks as part of the road safety campaign. This testing station is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and equipment, ensuring accurate and efficient testing of multiple aspects, including vehicle emissions, brakes, lights, and overall safety compliance,’ he stated.
Lutombi expressed confidence that this comprehensive testing unit will elevate road safety standards and decrease the risk of road crashes resulting from poorly maintained or non-compliant vehicles.
Rosalia Martins-Hausiku, CEO of the Motor Vehicles Association (MVA) Fund, acknowledged a decline in the number of road traffic crashes during the last festive season. However, she noted that on an annual basis, the Fund spends an average of N.dollars 200 m
illion on medical costs and another N.dollars 80 million on other direct claims.
‘The medical costs linked to these road crashes, alongside subsequent deaths and injuries, encompass various expenses from on-scene attendance to recovery or death. They include first-aid and rescue services (ambulance services), hospital costs, and the final stage of rehabilitation care and life enhancement,’ she added.
Source: NAMPA