Campaign clamps down on drunk driving

Road crashes claim an average of one life a day in Namibia, according to new data, with an estimated 30% of crashes linked to alcohol.

The statistics were shared by Namibia Road Safety Forum (NRSF) chief executive Horst Heimstadt during the launch of a new programme last week aimed at reducing drunk driving.

Heimstadt said a review of crash data found that, on average, seven crashes occur daily in Namibia, resulting in 12 injuries and 1.2 fatalities.

"Based on assumptions contained in the World Health Organisation's global status report on road safety 2023, it is estimated that more than 30% of crashes may involve alcohol impairment," he said.

In response to the growing road safety concerns, Namibia Breweries Limited (NBL), the NRSF and the traffic department at the Namibian police have introduced the Driving Under the Influence (DUI) Assessment and Enforcement Programme.

Clamp down on drunk driving

The programme, which will run from July until January 2027, will establish nine checkpoints across the country. Officers will conduct breathalyser tests and inspect drivers' licences, seatbelt compliance and vehicle roadworthiness, including tyre conditions.

“Road safety remains one of the most persistent public safety challenges facing our country," Namibian Police Commissioner Petrus C.J. Swartz said.

“The message from the police remains simple and clear: If you drink, do not drive. If you drive, do not drink,” he said.

NBL managing director Walder von Lieres said the company has promoted responsible drinking for more than 20 years.

“At Namibia Breweries Limited, our position is clear and consistent: we support responsible and moderate alcohol consumption, but when you drive, do not drink, and when you drink alcohol, never drive,” he said.

Von Lieres said the company's commitment to responsible drinking has included a long standing partnership with the Motor Vehicle Accident (MVA) Fund.