More Safety Needed at Our Beaches

I am a first-year student at the International University of Management (IUM) studying sustainable ocean and aquaculture management.

I am compelled to raise concern regarding safety issues at our beaches and the jetty at Swakopmund.

Swakopmund and neighbouring towns like Walvis Bay are pivotal hubs for tourism in Namibia, attracting both local and international visitors with their pristine beaches and scenic attractions.

However, the increasing number of drowning incidents and suicide cases occurring at our beaches and on the jetty paints a distressing picture of negligence.

This year alone, the number of lives lost at sea is alarming. Several cases have been reported of people drowning and there are concerning reports of people jumping from the jetty.

Shockingly, there is no visible, active presence of lifeguards on duty to respond to such emergencies. When accidents happen, the response time is often delayed, as rescuers have to come from within the town, by which time it is often too late to save lives.

For a town like Swakopmund, such incidents not only tarnish Namibia’s reputation, but also raise critical questions about public safety and crisis management. If urgent action is not taken, this neglect would discourage visitors, harm the local economy and undermine the pride we take in our coastal towns.

I strongly urge the Municipality of Swakopmund to implement the following measures:

1. • Deploy active lifeguards: Trained lifeguards should be stationed at strategic points along the beaches and jetty areas, especially during peak hours and tourist seasons.
2. • Install safety barriers and warning signs: The jetty should have appropriate barriers and clear signage to prevent accidental falls or unauthorised access to high-risk areas.
3. • Emergency response units: Establish a dedicated, rapid-response team stationed near the beach to handle emergencies promptly.
4. • Public awareness campaigns: Educate residents and visitors about ocean safety and the risks associated with swimming or engaging in unsafe activities in these areas.
5. • Mental health support: Collaborate with local organisations to address the root causes of suicide and offer support to those in need.

As a concerned citizen and student, I am willing to contribute ideas and collaborate with relevant stakeholders to find sustainable solutions.

This is not merely about addressing a problem, but about preserving lives, fostering a culture of safety and safeguarding the reputation of Namibia as a world-class destination.

Let’s prioritise human lives and take immediate action to protect our beaches and jetties.

Together we can create a safer, more welcoming environment for both residents and visitors.
Frans Nekundi