Santam and the City of Windhoek have joined hands to enhance public safety through the launch of a billboard to raise fire and flood risk awareness in the capital.
The billboard contains flood warning signs to help save lives as well as reduce the risk of injury and property damage.
The City of Windhoek Mayor, Ndeshihafela Laranja, said the handover of flood warning signs and the unveiling of the fire and risk awareness billboard symbolised not only a partnership between two institutions but a shared commitment to protecting lives, property, and livelihoods.
She commended Santam for the collaboration, as it demonstrates the power of public-private partnerships in addressing the challenges caused by climate change.
"They will serve as critical visual alerts for motorists and pedestrians, helping to prevent accidents, save lives and reduce property damage during the rainy season. These hazards threaten not only our physical infrastructure but also the livelihood and safety of our residents, especially those living in flood-prone and informal settlement areas."
The Chief Executive Officer of Santam Namibia, Franco Feris, said shifting climate patterns and rapid urbanisation have significantly increased the frequency and intensity of flash floods.
"Where we have installed them is not only in Pelican Street but also Nelson Mandela Avenue, Metje Street, Arrebusch Street, Erosweg and Salem Street, eventually at the end of the day."
Speaking on behalf of the City of Windhoek Chief Executive Officer, Moses Matyayi, the Head of Disaster Risk Management said the city remains focused on a defined vision to be a sustainable and caring city by 2027.
"So the City of Windhoek recognised the absolute need to proactively engage key stakeholders before any emergency, before any disaster, because we really want to be proactive. We do not just want to be doing this when there is an emergency."
He said the collaboration will strengthen working relationships and contribute significantly to the betterment of service delivery to the city's residents.