Women working towards safer roads in Namibia

Road carnage in Namibia has dominated headlines with devastating and tragic frequency in rceent years with no sign of abating. In this edition we bring you the views of women, who are road safety champions and ambassadors of road safety. 

Nina Katangana

Road Safety Ambassador 

Women play a vital role in road safety, tell us why?  

I believe it’s a matter of we should. The concern around road safety is one that affects society as a whole. Statistically speaking, road accidents have become a national health concern. It not only has adverse effects on a nation socially, but economically too. As women our voices are being heard more and more. Road Safety should be no exception.

As a Road Safety ambassador, what is your contribution towards safer roads?

My contribution as a Road Safety ambassador is to shed light on strategies and interventions that we can apply in our daily lives to ensure safety on the roads for ourselves and fellow road users. An informed individual is one that can make better choices. I advocate for the safer use of our roads and use my voice and platforms to enlighten and educate my fellow Namibians on how to do that.

What change do you want to see on our roads?   

In a nutshell my dream is to see Namibians become more mindful and considerate road users. Whether they be a motorist, cyclist, pedestrian, etc. Inasmuch as our road carnage statistics have changed, seemingly for the better over past years, there is still much improvement needed. And it starts with our attitude as road users.

What can be done to reduce death and injuries on our roads? 

I believe we need a holistic approach to see our goals on this matter realised. Each stakeholder needs to come to the party. New laws can be implemented, stricter sentences and or fines can be given for breaking traffic regulations, but none of it matters if we do not begin to change our attitudes as road users. Simple strategies, such as planning ahead for a trip, doing regular vehicle checks, adhering to speed limits, resting instead of driving fatigued, not overloading your vehicle, driving sober, etc. are all steps that we can take to decrease our chances of crashes and serious injuries. 

Aune Panduleni 

UNAM Graduate

Women have a vital role in road safety, tell us why?  

Women have always been the most preferred drivers because of their sense of caution and their ability to avoid unnecessary accidents.

As a Road Safety ambassador, what is your contribution towards safer roads?

First things first, I always put on my seat belt as a passenger. As a road user I am cautious when crossing roads and always try to be one step ahead for uncertainties.

What change do you want to see on our roads?

I think we have fine roads compared to other SADC countries. But more still needs to be done to replace damaged road signs, potholes and continuous renewal of road markings where necessary.

What can be done to reduce death and injuries on our roads? 

It would be nice for drivers to have a sense of the importance of life, just knowing that life is precious should motivate drivers to opt for the road safely and I am sure this can make a big difference.

Milly Cloete 

Traffic Superintendent 

Women play a vital role in road safety, why?  

Woman have the character of teacher, mother, sister, daughter and wife in the community and could be more helpful in addressing these issues of road safety at home, at school and with family. Women are more considerate, careful and law abiding drivers. 

As a Road Safety champion, what is your contribution towards safer roads?

Education starts at home, we must teach our kids to buckle up and education must start from pre-primary school about road safety. Visits at the schools entice scholar patrols. Visibility of our law enforcement officers is also vital. 

What do you want to see change on our roads?

Good driver behaviour is key while we must stick to the rules of the road. Drivers must stay within the prescribed speed limits and learn to keep their following distance. Drivers must not entertain unnecessary overtaking, nor use alcohol, or use a mobile phone while driving, and be belted. 

For more on these issues, join the Women in Road Safety Expo and Conference in Mariental on 18 and 19 September. To become a road safety female champion in your region contact the organisers on +264 811279321 hileni@aa-namibia.com