The Namibian Police Force officially launched the 2025/26 festive season operation for the Kavango West region under the theme ‘Safer Namibia’ on Tuesday, with regional commander commissioner Julia Sakuwa-Neo reporting an increase in road fatalities compared to last year.
Sakuwa-Neo announced that between 1 January and 1 December, the region recorded 307 crashes involving 332 vehicles, and resulting in 19 fatalities, 62 serious injuries and 70 slight injuries. This marks a significant increase from last year’s statistics of 192 crashes with nine fatalities and 25 serious injuries.
The operation, running from 15 November 2025 to 16 January 2026, is aimed at combating drunk driving, speeding, reckless driving and crime prevention during the festive period when road accidents typically spike.
Commissioner Sakuwa-Neo highlighted recent incidents, including a pedestrian death at Guaqui village on 30 November, followed by three more fatalities on 1 December, and separate accidents at the villages of Nepara and Kayaura.
She warned communities against taking the law into their own hands after residents at Guaqui and Kayaura attempted to attack drivers involved in accidents and threatened to damage their vehicles.
“Both pedestrians and drivers have a responsibility when it comes to road safety. They should allow the law to take its course,” Sakuwa-Neo emphasised, noting that seven of the 19 fatalities were pedestrians struck while crossing roads. Two resulted from collisions with domestic animals.
Namibian Public Passenger Transport Association (NPPTA) in the Kavango West reguin chairperson, Karambo Matelius, had pledged industry support for the campaign.
The association, which operates 24 local authority permits with two currently active, has implemented defensive driving training for operators through Motor Vehicle Accident Fund support.
Matelius says NPPTA recognises only three official loading zones and will not accept responsibility for incidents at unauthorised locations. The association also has a WhatsApp communication platform for road safety and crime prevention.
The operation further focuses on ensuring drivers and vehicles are roadworthy while addressing persistent challenges, including poor road infrastructure in areas like Kurisuka, Karanawa and parts of Maporeza.
Sakuwa-Neo urged road users to comply with traffic regulations, avoid drinking and driving, and cooperate with law enforcement during the festive season to prevent further loss of life.
– Nampa
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