Road accidents and crashes have claimed 44 lives in the Omaheke Region since 2024. During the period under review, more than 300 individuals were arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol.
Omaheke Police Commander Heinrich Tjiveze stated that visible traffic law enforcement, alongside regular maintenance of high-traffic-volume gravel roads, will contribute to the prevention of road accidents.
He was speaking during the oversight and public hearing on the motion regarding road accidents by the National Council Standing Committee on Transport Infrastructure and Housing.
"The commitment to visible traffic law enforcement will continue, alongside efforts to enhance fencing and install warning signs at major road crossings. Regular maintenance of high-traffic gravel roads, such as Epukiro and Talismanus, is also a priority. The project to upgrade these roads has commenced, and certain sections have already been paved. However, maintenance of the remaining gravel stretches must also continue."
Health Director in the Omaheke Region, Jeremia Shikulo, noted that the shortage of ambulances delays timely services to those involved in road crashes.
"We recommend that the Hospital and Health Facilities Act 36 of 1994 also need to be revised so that we improve on either the licensing or acquisition of ambulances, and the completion of the ICU and high-care unit will also be one of the mitigatory measures."
The Vice Chairperson of the parliamentary standing committee, Christopher Likuwa, welcomed the recommendations of the stakeholders and assured them that the committee will further deliberate on them.
"Government listens to its citizens, and we are all part of this nation. What we discuss here will be taken into account and reported back to Parliament, ultimately leading to legal changes. We are addressing the reasons behind the increasing number of accidents. We are attentive to your concerns, and it is essential for people to engage with the nation."