The holiday season has officially ended, and parents across the country have been hitting the road since the start of the week to drop off their children at school.

As the 2024 academic year commences for schools nationwide, little boys and girls are eager to start their first day of preprimary education.

Although the first day of school can easily evoke fear and tears in both parents and learners alike, there were mostly happy faces in many schools in Erongo Region.

A police officer has been arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol at Walvis Bay.

According to a police report, a white Toyota Hilux with a NamPol registration collided with a Honda Fit on Thursday, January 11, at half past ten at night along Independence Road in Walvis Bay.

The driver of the police vehicle is alleged to have driven the vehicle with an alcohol concentration level exceeding the legal limit.

It is further alleged that the suspect drove the motor vehicle recklessly and negligently and collided with the Honda Fit.

Erongo Governor Neville André has called on the three re-elected mayors of the coastal towns of Swakopmund, Walvis Bay, and Henties Bay to expand their services to the residents in anticipation of high urban-rural migration this year.

This André was highlighted during an interview with nbc News.

Andre says rural-urban migration has placed local authorities under pressure and is making it difficult to meet the increasing demands for basic services as a result of the high influx.

Swakopmund Mayor Dina Namubes reflected on the impact of visitors during December, which improved the domestic economy.

The town attracted visitors from as far away as Angola, Botswana, and South Africa.

nbc News reporter Stefan Uirab spoke to Namubes.

Pashula Hangula, 13 years old, died in a freak accident this afternoon in the Dune 7 area between Swakopmund and Walvis Bay.

The police report indicates that a driver, 21 years old, was allegedly following another vehicle when his vehicle got stuck in the sand as it was ascending to the top of the dune.

The driver then stopped, and in the process of driving the vehicle out of the sand, the vehicle unfortunately skidded due to loose sand, so it overturned and started rolling down the dune.

Swakopmund, a traditional holiday spot for both locals and foreigners, offers a plethora of opportunities for adventures, sports, and classic entertainment. 

This festive season, Namibians, particularly those from Windhoek and the southern part of the country, have made Swakopmund their preferred destination.

Namibians, seeking a break from the usual Christmas celebrations, flocked to Swakopmund for a mix of church visits and festive leisure.

Some opted for a relaxing day at home, indulging in cooking and grilling meat on hot coals. 

Swakopmund, the picturesque coastal town, witnessed an exhilarating year-end target archery shooting event over the weekend.

Archers from various clubs gathered to showcase their skills and compete for top honours in this captivating sport.

Joining an archery club not only fosters focus and discipline but also provides a welcoming community of like-minded individuals.

Swakopmund has already drawn a substantial number of visitors, leading to a shortage of available parking space.

This influx is proving beneficial for the local economy.

nbc News reporter Stefan |Uirab interviewed Swakopmund Mayor Dina Namubes to shed light on the situation.

Hitch-hikers in Swakopmund find themselves in a predicament as they contend with inflated transportation prices, leaving them stranded at no-hitchhiking zones and service stations.

As the demand for travel surges during the festive season, transport owners have raised prices, leaving many people, stranded with belongings and accompanied by children, waiting for rides.

The usual hustle and bustle at taxi ranks, where seven-seaters and licensed transport vehicles pick up passengers, have now become quiet, with no cars in sight.

Swakopmund is one of the preferred holiday destinations in the country, and with its pleasant weather, it is impossible to stay indoors. 

When the scorching sun comes out, many are drawn to the beach to cool off or enjoy activities such as volleyball and beach soccer.
However, safety at the beach is vital for those wishing to take a dive into the ocean. 

nbc's reporter Stefan |Uirab spoke to lifeguard Jonas Sheyavali.