The MVA Fund recently hosted its Annual Wheelchair Fun Ride in Otjiwarongo, continuing a cherished tradition that celebrates resilience, unity, and joy. The fun ride saw 15 claimants who are mostly wheelchair users as a result of serious injuries caused by road crashes, take part in a ride geared towards creating awareness and raising the profile of the social and physical challenges that road crashes can cause, whilst highlighting the concerns of people with disabilities.
John Haufiku, Chief Corporate Affairs of the Fund highlighted the significance of the event saying the fun ride was a reaffirmation of the Fund’s unwavering commitment to the well-being, rehabilitation, and empowerment of SIPs.
“This event embodies the transformative power of unity and serves as a reminder that limitations are only what we allow them to be,” said Haufiku.
Since its inception in 2009, this event features on the MVA Fund’s annual calendar and celebrates resilience, whilst also serving as a reminder of the realities of road safety in Namibia. Despite making strides in reducing road fatalities, bringing the rate down from 26 to 14 per 100,000 people in recent years. However, with 369 fatalities recorded so far in 2024, the need for continued efforts remains urgent.
These numbers are not just statistics but lives profoundly impacted by preventable incidents.
With human behaviour contributing to 70% of road crashes, the Fund underscores the importance of addressing risky behaviours such as speeding, driving under the influence, and neglecting seatbelt use.
The MVA Fund emphasized the importance of its toll-free accident response number, 9682, as a vital tool for saving lives during emergencies, particularly during the festive season. Noting that this period is often marked by an increase in road crashes and fatalities, the Fund urged all road users to exercise heightened vigilance, consideration, and patience to help prevent the loss of lives during this time of joy and celebration.