Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Puyeipawa Nakashole
Published on 2024-03-27 17:35:46
The chief executive officer of the Motor Vehicle Accident Fund of Namibia (MVA Fund), Rosalia Martins-Hausiku, is urging the public to take precautions and be prepared for road journeys to prevent unnecessary loss of life on Namibia’s roads during the Easter weekend.
Historical data has indicated that road accidents tend to increase during holiday seasons, with the Easter weekend being particularly prone to such incidents. Martins-Hausiku emphasized that this period is marked by a significant rise in traffic volumes, especially on the B1 and B2 routes, leading to the southern, northern, and coastal regions of the country. Unfortunately, this period has earned a reputation as one of the deadliest weekends in Namibia, with numerous lives lost and individuals sustaining varying degrees of injuries.
Looking back at the 2023 Easter weekend, Martins-Hausiku revealed that five individuals lost their lives in 35 road accidents in Namibia, while 106 people suffered injuries of different severities. In response to these alarming statistics, road safety partners have initiated intensified roadblock activations to minimize the potential repercussions of crashes, injuries, and fatalities during the Easter holiday.
The MVA Fund, in collaboration with traffic law enforcement, will be leading an initiative focused on journey preparedness, with a specific emphasis on ensuring the fitness of vehicles and drivers, as well as passenger safety along key routes including B1 (Otjozondjupa, Oshikoto, Oshana, and Ohangwena regions), B2 (Otjozondjupa and Erongo regions), B6 (Khomas and Omaheke), and B14 (Grootfontein to Gobabis) roads. Additionally, with the Namibian Newspaper Cup set to take place in Gobabis (B6 and B14) this weekend, there is expected to be a surge in traffic flow on these routes, further highlighting the need for vigilance and caution.
Furthermore, the MVA Fund is actively promoting its #ClickForLife campaign, aimed at raising awareness about the importance of using safety belts and child restraints correctly. While the campaign focuses on seatbelt usage, it also addresses other critical risk factors such as speeding, drunk driving, and driver fatigue, all of which contribute to road accidents and casualties.
In conclusion, Martins-Hausiku’s message serves as a timely reminder for all road users to prioritize safety and responsible driving behaviors during the upcoming Easter weekend. By taking the necessary precautions and adhering to road safety protocols, individuals can help reduce the likelihood of accidents and ultimately save lives on Namibia’s roads.
Read the original article on The Namibian
