Pedestrian fatalities in Namibia increased to 47 in the first three months of 2026 from 41 in the same period last year, according to the Motor Vehicle Accident Fund, even as overall pedestrian-related crashes and injuries declined. Police and transport operators cite intoxication, inattention, and poor road conditions as contributing factors, with authorities calling for targeted safety measures in high-risk regions.
Pedestrian fatalities in Namibia increased to 47 in the first three months of 2026 from 41 in the same period last year, according to the Motor Vehicle Accident Fund, even as overall pedestrian-related crashes and injuries declined. Police and transport operators cite intoxication, inattention, and poor road conditions as contributing factors, with authorities calling for targeted safety measures in high-risk regions.
The Ministry of Health and Social Services will not take disciplinary action against four nurses, an intern doctor, and a doctor from Onandjokwe State Hospital accused of defrauding Sanlam of about N$1.9 million until police investigations are completed. The 12 arrested individuals are alleged to have helped members of the public claim insurance payouts using fake documents and fake death claims between 2020 and 2024.
The Oshana police commander has raised alarm over an increase in online child sexual abuse and exploitation, calling the trend deeply concerning. He stressed that law enforcement and social services must strengthen victim support and proper handling of digital evidence through collaborative training efforts.
The Namibia Statistics Agency has highlighted gaps in how official data is being used in decision-making, particularly in Kavango West, where a local councillor questioned whether government spending on data collection yields actionable results. The NSA spokesperson stressed the need to translate census statistics into concrete planning, citing pressures from a youthful population (76% under 35), urbanisation, and migration patterns that require targeted public service provision.
Illegal tenants occupying government houses and flats have refused to vacate following an order from the Minister of Works and Transport Veikko Nekundi, citing lack of alternative housing and harsh weather conditions. The occupants say they will not leave unless the government provides them with jobs or alternative accommodation, while the minister has threatened forced removal and penalties.
The Namibia Statistics Agency has highlighted the importance of accurate statistics for effective national development, noting that demographic data reveal key trends including rapid urbanisation, high unemployment, and a predominantly youthful population. NSA spokesperson Iipumbu Sakaria stressed that data-driven planning enables informed decisions on infrastructure, resource allocation, and targeted interventions.
The defence in the trial of Mechtilde Karomo, accused of setting her lover and his girlfriend alight in a fire in Okahandja Park on 26 December 2022, has urged the Windhoek High Court to acquit her of murder and arson charges, arguing the State failed to prove its case beyond reasonable doubt and that her confession was obtained under duress and in violation of procedural requirements.
Global conflict and shipping disruptions threaten fuel supply and prices, prompting analysts and government officials to warn Namibians against panic buying and illegal fuel storage, which could create fire hazards, environmental damage and market distortions. Namibia is particularly vulnerable as it imports all refined petroleum products, and rising fuel costs are expected to increase transport, food and operating costs across the economy.
A 48-year-old doctor based at Onandjokwe State Hospital was arrested at the Muhembo border post in Kavango East on Saturday in connection with a N$1.9 million fraud case involving Sanlam. Police allege the doctor used false documents from various doctors in the north to steal money from the insurance company.
Namibia's police honoured 17 officers who died in the line of duty over seven years on International Blue Day, with officers describing the physical and emotional risks they face, including motor vehicle accidents, violent crime responses, and armed confrontations with criminals.