The Kavango West Region has recorded 168 road accidents between April and August this year, while GBV cases have reduced.
This was shared during the national prayer day held at Nkurenkuru.
Out of the 168 road accident cases, eight people died, and 18 were seriously injured. The majority of the accidents happened on busy routes, mainly Rundu to Mururani and Rundu to Nkurenkuru.
The main contributing factors to these accidents include speeding, driving under the influence of alcohol, unlicensed drivers, stray livestock, and pedestrian involvement.
Deputy Commissioner Abner Agas, the Crime Investigation Coordinator in the Kavango West Region, stated, "We educate community members to ensure they do not drink and attempt to cross the road while under the influence. We also enforce the law when necessary. Furthermore, we visit various schools, churches, and community gatherings to hold meetings aimed at raising awareness. We emphasise to our communities that the road is primarily intended for vehicles. There is a prevailing belief in our community that if the road runs through our village, it is for our personal use as pedestrians."
Rape continues to be the most frequently reported offence. Additional cases include assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm and assault through threats.
In 2023, a total of 129 cases of gender-based violence were reported, with 68 resulting in arrests; however, 30 of these cases were subsequently withdrawn. In 2024, there were 85 recorded cases, leading to 51 arrests, while 19 cases were also withdrawn. The following year, 2025, saw an increase to 96 cases, with 58 arrests made, and once again, 19 cases were withdrawn.
Detective Inspector Pinno Tubayumbe, the Head of the GBV Protection Unit in the Kavango West Region, stated, "In addition to these cases, we have registered 17 murder cases involving victims of domestic violence and gender-based violence. The victims include husbands, wives, grandparents, boys, girls, and children. All suspects in these 17 murder cases have been arrested, and prosecution is ongoing."
Since April this year, 15 GBV cases have been recorded with 12 arrests.
Kavango West Governor Verna Sinimbo urged the community not to treat prayer as a substitute for action.
"These social ills cannot be addressed solely by government institutions. While laws, policies, social services, and public programmes are essential, genuine and lasting change must also occur within the hearts, attitudes, and behaviours of individuals. This is why spiritual leaders and faith communities have been called upon to collaborate with the government and the nation."
The governor called on all stakeholders to strengthen GBV prevention programmes and victim support services in the region.