High school learners from all 14 regions of Namibia are tackling pedestrian safety at the 14th Annual National MVA Fund Debating Championship in Swakopmund.

The four-day event aims to promote road safety awareness, with learners using the platform to showcase their advocacy and critical thinking skills on this important issue.

Tugela Sakarias, Debate Coordinator for the Erongo Region, emphasized the importance of these debates:  
"Learners need to speak up on issues and compete at a national level. We want to see how they grow, especially in addressing road safety. They are the future, and through these debates, they gain the knowledge needed to help the MVA Fund reduce accidents and preserve the lives of our citizens."

Nearly 100 learners, accompanied by 52 teachers, are participating in the championship, which encourages them to think critically about road safety and propose solutions.

Selma Kayawala from the Erongo Region highlighted the role of young people in shaping a safer future:  
"We are the future drivers and pedestrians. By educating ourselves, we learn how to prevent accidents. Although accidents are unpredictable, we can minimize them through awareness and prevention."

Shikukumwa Mukonda from the |Khomas Region discussed the broader issues contributing to road accidents:  
"Driver fitness contributes to 17% of traffic violations, which often lead to more severe accidents. We need to address the alcoholism and drug issues in our country while also tackling speeding. This debate opens the nation’s eyes to the many preventable causes of road accidents."

Phillip Mbangula from the Ohangwena Region shared concerns about the high number of road accidents in his region:  
"In the north, many people travel for year-end festivities, often driving under the influence. Ohangwena, with the highest population in the country, faces significant road safety challenges. This platform helps us address these critical issues."

The Oshikoto Region will defend its title, while the host region, Erongo, hopes to claim victory this year.