As technology reshapes mobility, Namibia stands ready for a safer, smarter public transport future.
Across Namibia’s 14 regions, thousands of people depend on public transport every day for work, education, business, and family visits. From Windhoek’s bustling hiking points to the long-distance routes linking Oshakati, Gobabis, and Keetmanshoop, our transport system connects communities and sustains livelihoods.
Yet beneath this movement lies a growing concern safety. For many commuters, every trip begins with uncertainty: Who is really driving? Is the vehicle insured or roadworthy? What happens if something goes wrong? The Motor Vehicle Accident (MVA) Fund recorded 2,925 crashes in 2024, resulting in 5,297 injuries and 385 deaths. Human error from reckless overtaking and cellphone use to fatigue contributed to over 70% of these accidents. As the festive season approaches, these figures are expected to rise, with long-distance travel carrying the highest risks.
A System Under Pressure
Public transport in Namibia is both essential and fragile. Despite efforts to improve mobility, the reality is that many passengers still face harassment, theft, and confusion at hiking stations. Bags are snatched, fares fluctuate, and passengers have no clear accountability when incidents occur.
On the other hand, many operators especially those driving seven-seater vehicles and minibuses struggle to keep up with changing regulations and new competition. The rise of global and regional ride services such as InDrive and InterCity is changing passenger expectations. Technology has become the new currency of trust.
Namibia’s Road Transportation Act of 1977 and Road Traffic and Transport Act of 1999 require every vehicle that carries passengers for reward to hold a valid public transport permit. This ensures that only licensed vehicles, inspected for safety, are allowed to operate. The Roads Authority recently introduced reforms requiring operators to show proof of vehicle ownership and safety compliance when applying for new permits.
The Ministry of Works and Transport also confirmed that seven-seater vehicles can now apply for long-distance transport permits a welcome opportunity for small operators to grow their businesses legally. But with progress comes responsibility. Unlicensed or informal operators continue to pose serious risks. As highlighted by We Namibia, “Unlicensed operators pose a serious threat to both passengers and the wider public. Many are uninsured and untraceable, leaving victims with no recourse when accidents occur.” Without passenger liability insurance, victims of accidents often face overwhelming medical bills and loss of income.
When Innovation Becomes a Lifeline.
While these challenges persist, new ideas are emerging from within Namibia itself innovations designed to empower traditional operators while protecting passengers. One such initiative is a Namibian-built mobility platform that aims to bridge the gap between traditional hiking systems and modern ride-sharing technology. This digital ecosystem is designed to verify drivers, ensure valid permits, and track trips in real time, allowing passengers to travel safely and with confidence.
More importantly, it gives traditional transport operators the tools they need to compete fairly in the modern market without losing their independence. Instead of being replaced by global apps, they become part of a digital system that connects them directly with passengers, helps manage bookings, and enhances trust. This homegrown platform, known as Ronda RideShare, positions itself not as a disruptor, but as a digital bridge between the old and the new a safer haven for Namibia’s transport future.
A Movement for Safer Roads
To build national awareness around safety and modernization, Ronda RideShare is launching the National Transport Safety Awareness Campaign starting 20 November 2025, reaching all 14 regions.
The campaign aims to engage drivers, passengers, and community leaders on road safety, transport compliance, and the role of technology in preventing accidents. It calls on everyone who values safe and reliable public transport to unite behind a shared goal: reducing accidents and saving lives. Through educational events, regional activations, and collaborations with transport stakeholders, the campaign will encourage a culture of responsibility and safety particularly as the festive season approaches.
How Digital Platforms Strengthen Traditional Transport?
Technology isn’t here to replace the hardworking men and women who keep Namibia moving it’s here to support and protect them. For too long, drivers and passengers in the traditional public transport system have operated in uncertainty, without the tools or recognition they deserve.
New platforms like Ronda RideShare are designed to enhance what already exists. They bring transparency, accountability, and safety to the system helping legitimate operators earn trust, attract more passengers, and grow their businesses with less risk.
Here’s how:
- Verified Drivers & Safe Trips: Every registered driver is verified, ensuring only those with valid permits and clean records operate. Passengers know exactly who’s behind the wheel.
- Digital Tracking & Proof of Trip: No more disputes or missing passengers. Trips are digitally logged, creating a layer of accountability for both drivers and passengers.
- Fair Fares & Bonuses: Drivers who offer quality service and maintain good safety ratings earn performance bonuses and loyalty rewards. Passengers benefit from fair, transparent pricing.
- Insurance Integration: By operating within the platform, vehicles are recognized as formal transport entities, enabling proper insurance coverage in case of incidents.
- Data for Better Policy: Real-time trip data can help government and transport bodies identify high-risk zones, improve routes, and design smarter mobility policies.
This is why drivers and passengers alike must seize this moment. The transport sector is changing fast and those who adapt will lead the way into a safer, more efficient future. To every driver who has worked long hours on the road, every passenger who dreams of safer travel, and every policymaker who wants a stronger Namibia this is your opportunity. Together, we can build a system that truly serves our people and safeguards our roads.
This is not just an app. It’s a movement for safer mobility, for transparency, for dignity on our roads. A platform for those who care about the safety of our Republic to partner, engage, and make a difference.
If you believe in this vision, share your thoughts below and join the conversation. Let’s shape the future of Namibian transport together
#SafeRoadsNamibia #TransportInnovation #SmartMobility #RideSafeNamibia #DigitalFuture #RondaRideShare
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