The Motor Vehicle Accident (MVA) Fund has raised concern over a sharp rise in pedestrian deaths, reporting a 45% increase between 1 January and 4 June 2025 compared to the same period last year.
According to the Fund, the number of pedestrian fatalities rose from 60 to 87, while pedestrian-related crashes increased by 15% to 501 incidents.
Pedestrian injuries according to the MVA Fund, also climbed by 14% to 464.
MVA Fund Chief Executive Officer Rosalia Martins-Hausiku described the figures as deeply concerning and urged all stakeholders to take immediate action.
“We cannot normalise these numbers. We are seeing entire communities living with the pain of preventable loss. Every driver, policymaker, city planner, and citizen have a role to play in turning this tide,” she said.
Children according to the MVA Fund, remain particularly vulnerable, with those aged 0 to 14 accounting for 23% of pedestrian injuries (109 cases) and 18% of pedestrian fatalities (16 deaths).
Elderly pedestrians, particularly those aged 50 to 65, made up 12% of injuries (55 cases) and recorded 13 fatalities according to the fund.
The Khomas Region continues to record the highest number of pedestrian incidents, accounting for 45% of all crashes (226 cases), 49% of injuries (226 cases), and 18% of deaths (16 fatalities). In contrast, the Kunene Region reported the lowest numbers, with just four pedestrian crashes and two deaths.
“Each life saved is a family spared. Let’s be the difference between life and death,” Martins-Hausiku said.
The data also shows that more than half of all pedestrian fatalities (51%) occurred in the evening, particularly between 18h00 and 23h59.
Late night and early morning periods, between 02h00 and 03h59, also saw a significant increase in crashes and injuries compared to the previous year.
In response to the rising numbers, the MVA Fund said it is intensifying its road safety campaigns, focusing on schools, taxi ranks, and high-risk areas, particularly in Khomas, Oshikoto, and Zambezi.
“We are accelerating campaigns in the most affected regions. Drivers must slow down, stay alert, and give way to pedestrians,” said Martins-Hausiku.
