The leadership of the City of Windhoek, together with the Deputy Minister of Urban and Rural Development, took a ride on Wednesday morning to experience the challenges commuters face with public transport.
The goal was to comprehend and tackle the everyday obstacles faced by city commuters.
One focal point was the Siyanda Bus Stop on Eveline Street in Greenwell Matongo, a busy hub where many residents gather to catch municipal buses to work and school.
Most commuters arrive as early as 5 a.m., choosing the bus as a cheaper mode of transport. Smart-card holders pay only N$8.50, while those paying per trip pay N$9.50. However, passengers expressed frustration with the payment system.
One commuter said that the card-swiping machines often malfunction, and bus drivers do not allow a second attempt, forcing passengers to leave the bus without a solution, leaving many unsure of their next option amid private taxi operators who charge extra.
Deputy Minister of Urban and Rural Development, Eveline !Nawases-Taeyeale, described the experience as an eye-opener. "From the onset, today's experience demonstrates the reality for many of our citizens, adult and children alike: dependence on a transport system that is supposed to be affordable, reliable and accessible."
Titus Ndove, Executive Director in the Ministry of Works and Transport, affirmed the ministry’s commitment to a transport system that is safe, integrated, efficient, and accessible to all, regardless of social status.
"We plan and coordinate the major infrastructure investment; we also strengthen the role of public transport in reducing congestion and improving mobility – the same problems we have actually experienced this morning – and we also support local authorities in their initiative basically to improve public mobility."
Mayor Ndashihafela Larandja emphasised the importance of transport in all aspects of city life and called for continuous improvement to enhance current systems.
Sidney Boois, Executive Officer for Transportation at the Roads Authority, highlighted that strategic investment in road infrastructure could boost Namibia’s GDP by 8%. He added that this should be paired with green transport solutions to ensure sustainability.