Tunis:TransNamib Chief Executive Officer Desmond van Jaarsveld has emphasized the need for collective responsibility to ensure the safety of Namibia's railway infrastructure. He stated that rail safety is a national concern requiring the involvement of communities, local authorities, and law enforcement agencies.

According to Namibia Press Agency, Van Jaarsveld made these remarks during the launch of the Southern African Railway Association (SARA) Rail Safety Week 2026. The event was held under the theme, 'Think Safe, Work Safe From Workplaces to Communities, Every Action Counts'.

He highlighted that TransNamib cannot be solely responsible for railway safety, as it is impractical to station security personnel at every railway crossing or to enclose the entire railway network. Van Jaarsveld urged community leaders, traditional authorities, church leaders, and youth organizations to form community policing forums along railway lines to prevent theft and vandalism.

He also encouraged the public to report incidents of theft, vandalism, and suspicious activities involving railway infrastructure to TransNamib's 24-hour Operational Command Centre at 081 958 2002. Additionally, he called on municipalities and road authorities to maintain railway level crossings, warning signs, and access roads. He warned that poorly maintained infrastructure increases the risk of collisions between trains and vehicles.

Moreover, Van Jaarsveld noted that TransNamib has implemented reforms following an independent safety review, including upgrading safety systems and enhancing employee training.

Acting Inspector General of the Namibian Police Force, Major General Anne-Marie Nainda, underscored the importance of community involvement in preventing crime and ensuring railway safety. She pointed out that community members are usually the first to notice suspicious activities or hazards along railway lines and stressed that police efforts are more effective with community cooperation.

Nainda also stressed the need to educate children and young people about the dangers of railway infrastructure, warning against playing on tracks, walking along railway lines, and crossing at unauthorized points. She affirmed that NamPol will continue collaborating with TransNamib and other stakeholders to address crime, vandalism, and unsafe behavior related to railway infrastructure.