Martin Endjala
The police plan to put up shade ports and roofs at all major police checkpoints.
Ongwediva has become the latest police checkpoint with infrastructure that provides shade for officers and their equipment.
The infrastructure at the Ongwediva police checkpoint will be inaugurated on Saturday, according to police spokesperson Deputy Commissioner Kauna Shikwambi.
“The Namibian Police Force has been and will continue to construct and/or upgrade our facilities, depending on the available or allocated budget. The total cost is still unknown. Indeed, the Oshiko police checkpoint will be inaugurated on Saturday, 20 July 2024, and the cost implications and further details will be announced by the guest of honour who will officiate the event,” she said.
Shikwambi explained that the police plan to put up shades and roofs at all major roadblocks across the country.
She said that depending on the availability of funds, the type of structure varies depending on each location and checkpoint.
“The checkpoint is aimed at ensuring road safety and controlling the flow of traffic. Although it is the only main roadblock between the Omusati and Oshana regions, mini roadblocks are also set up along the highway and at various entrance points to maintain law and order,” she said.
The police recently inaugurated an N$8.3 million Onhuno police checkpoint in the Ohangwena region, similar to the Ongwediva one in the Oshana region.
The N$8.3 million received criticism from the public, who demanded a breakdown of the expenditure. Shikwambi clarified that they adhered to all Public Procurement Acts and completed the project by August 26.
During the inauguration of the Onhuno police checkpoint in the Ohangwena region in April, the minister of home affairs, immigration, and safety security, Albert Kawana, said checkpoints are essential because they serve as a critical point for monitoring and regulating traffic flow.
He said it ensures compliance with road safety regulations and deters criminal activities on the road.
“Checkpoints foster a culture of safety and responsibility among our citizens. Road traffic accidents result in the loss of precious lives and inflict immense economic and social costs on our society,” the minister said.
