Kavango West's roaming livestock linked to 40% of road accidents

Stray cattle caused more than 40% of all road accidents in Kavango West during the first half of 2025, with April marking the worst month for such incidents, a new police report has revealed.From January to June, the region recorded 143 road crashes - 62 of which were linked to livestock roaming public roads. The data underscores the ongoing danger posed by free-roaming animals, particularly in rural areas lacking fences and with poor visibility.April alone accounted for 18 of the cattle-related crashes - out of 28 total incidents - marking the peak at 29% of the six-month total. Police believe this spike coincided with seasonal cattle movement after harvest, alongside deteriorating road conditions and inadequate herding practices.While cattle-linked incidents dropped slightly in May (10) and June (12), the figures remained high, pointing to a sustained threat beyond the seasonal surge.Villages most affected include Mururani, Mpungu, Matava, Mbambi, Sihepera, and Kahenge. More than 20 communities recorded cattle-related accidents during the six-month period.Only one fatality was recorded, but the report notes six cases of minor injuries and one serious injury linked to these crashes.‘Ignorance is a Challenge’Speaking to Namibian Sun on Friday, Kavango West regional police commander, Commissioner Julia Sakuwa-Neo, urged motorists—especially night-time drivers - to slow down and remain alert in high-risk areas such as Mururani, Bunya, and Ntara.“Although no fatalities were recorded in these three incidents, injuries were sustained. We urge drivers to consider travelling during daylight hours to avoid further accidents,” she said.Despite public awareness campaigns and fines, she said many livestock owners continue to let animals roam freely. “People tend to be ignorant regardless of what we say. It is really a challenge to regulate such matters,” she noted.The police have appealed for collective responsibility among motorists, farmers, and community leaders to reduce what they describe as entirely preventable accidents.

Kavango West's roaming livestock linked to 40% of road accidents

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Namibian Sun 2025-07-07

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Kavango West's roaming livestock linked to 40% of road accidents

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Namibian Sun 2025-07-07

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