KEETMANSHOOP – //Kharas Regional Governor Dawid Gertze emphasised that road safety is a shared national responsibility, not solely the burden of law enforcement, and called on public, private, and civic stakeholders to actively help protect human lives.
Speaking at the official launch of the //Kharas Regional Road Safety Forum last week in Keetmanshoop, Gertze said reducing traffic fatalities requires synchronised efforts from government bodies, transport operators, schools, and individual road users.
Detailing the specific interventions required under the new framework, the governor explained that the central government must support safe mobility through robust policy frameworks, public education campaigns, and proactive infrastructure planning.
He noted that local authorities were tasked with directly improving road conditions and regional traffic management.
“Law enforcement agencies must combine professional enforcement with public education and appropriate action against dangerous road-user behaviour,” Gertze added.
He further urged educational institutions to help learners develop responsible habits from an early age, while demanding that transport operators and businesses guarantee vehicle roadworthiness, driver fitness, responsible scheduling, and absolute passenger safety.
The governor concluded by charging the chairperson and executive committee members of the newly formed forum to lead the initiative with integrity, inclusiveness, and dedication, thanking all participating stakeholders for their commitment to the road safety undertaking.
Welcoming attendees at the event, Keetmanshoop Mayor Emrico Blaauw echoed the governor’s sentiments, describing the forum as a vital mechanism to reaffirm a collective commitment to preserving human life.
“Road safety is not the responsibility of the police alone, nor is it the sole responsibility of government; it is a shared responsibility that requires the participation of every road user, institution, family, and community,” Blaauw stated.
The mayor reminded residents that daily choices behind the wheel mean the difference between life and death.
He advised road users to help solve the problem by strictly obeying speed limits, wearing seat belts, avoiding driving under the influence of alcohol, refusing to use mobile phones while driving, and showing patience with others.
-sklukowski@nepc.com.na
The post Road safety a shared responsibility – Gertze appeared first on New Era.