EDITORIAL: Curbing the carnage on Namibia’s roads

Namibian roads have earned a grim reputation for being perilous, with an alarming rise in road accidents claiming lives and causing untold suffering to families and communities. As a nation traversed by vast stretches of highways connecting key economic zones, the safety of our roads is not just a matter of public concern but a national priority. The recent spate of fatal accidents, particularly on long-haul routes, underscores the urgent need for infrastructural upgrades - most critically, the construction of dual carriageways. Equally important is a cultural shift towards disciplined and responsible driving.Namibia’s extensive network of single carriageways, especially on key routes such as the B1 and B2 highways, has proven to be a significant risk factor. These roads, often shared by trucks, buses, and private vehicles, force overtaking maneuvers that are both dangerous and, in many cases, deadly. Dual carriageways, designed to separate opposing traffic flows, would drastically reduce such risks. Countries that have invested in such infrastructure have seen marked declines in road fatalities, and it is high time Namibia follows suit. The investment required for these upgrades is substantial, but the cost of inaction - measured in lives lost and economic impact - is far greater.While infrastructure improvements are vital, they must go hand-in-hand with responsible driving. Speeding, unsafe overtaking, drunk driving, and distracted driving are rampant despite stringent traffic laws. For road users, the message is clear: safety begins with individual responsibility. By respecting traffic rules, avoiding unnecessary risks, and exercising patience on our roads, we can collectively turn the tide on this national crisis. As a society, we owe it to ourselves and to future generations to make our roads safer.

EDITORIAL: Curbing the carnage on Namibia’s roads

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Namibian Sun 2025-05-02

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EDITORIAL: Curbing the carnage on Namibia’s roads

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Namibian Sun 2025-05-02

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