Two dead in Rovos Rail passenger train derailment near Keetmanshoop

Two people died when the luxury Rovos Rail passenger train derailed near Keetmanshoop on Sunday, prompting a massive emergency response and investigation into the cause.

The accident occurred at around 05h00 about 100km from Keetmanshoop, according to TransNamib.

Chief executive Desmond van Jaarsveld has confirmed the deaths in a media statement issued on Sunday.

“We confirm with deep sadness that a rail accident involving a train operated by Rovos Rail occurred in the early hours of this morning,” he says.

Van Jaarsveld says the company’s emergency response plan was activated immediately and teams were dispatched to the scene without delay.

“Our priority was and remains the safety and well-being of all employees and passengers. Urgent medical care was provided to those affected, and survivors are being supported,” he says.

According to the statement, regional medical services and the police responded alongside TransNamib’s emergency teams.

The area has been secured while investigations continue and an investigation into the cause of the derailment is currently underway.

“We are cooperating fully with the authorities, and once finalised, key stakeholders will be informed and appropriate measures will be implemented to prevent any recurrence,” Van Jaarsveld says.

Rovos Rail is a privately owned rail operator known for long-distance journeys across Southern Africa, catering regional and international tourists.

TransNamib manages and operates Namibia’s rail network and provides both freight and passenger services.

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