The opening of the Dr Hifikepunye Pohamba Freeway on March 7, 2025, signifies Namibia’s progress towards economic prosperity. This 42 km freeway links Walvis Bay and Swakopmund and is named in honor of former President Pohamba for his contributions to the nation. The project created substantial local jobs and investment, enhancing Namibia’s logistics capabilities and regional connectivity.
The official opening of the Dr Hifikepunye Pohamba Freeway, also known as MR 44, took place on March 7, 2025, in Walvis Bay. President Nangolo Mbumba expressed pride in this significant event, highlighting that it symbolizes Namibia’s path towards prosperity. The freeway, named after former President Hifikepunye Pohamba, is a testament to the foundation laid by Namibia’s esteemed leaders, including the late Sam Nujoma and current President Hage Geingob.
President Mbumba paid tribute to former Presidents Nujoma and Pohamba, whose contributions have shaped Namibia’s democracy. He emphasized the vital role that Pohamba played in promoting peace and stability in the nation while reinforcing the ongoing economic development under his leadership. The naming of the freeway after Pohamba signifies recognition of his accomplishments.
The Dr Hifikepunye Pohamba Freeway stretches 42 kilometers, linking Walvis Bay and Swakopmund. This freeway is a crucial addition to Namibia’s road network, enhancing connectivity and trade routes in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region. It signifies progress in transforming Namibia into a logistics hub while fostering economic cooperation through critical transport corridors.
This infrastructure project has created significant local employment opportunities, with roughly 650 jobs generated during construction, utilizing the services of 40 local suppliers and 11 small and medium enterprises. Approximately N$200 million was invested in local resources, bolstering economic growth throughout the project.
Looking ahead, Phase 2 of the freeway project is underway, which will extend dual carriageways to the Walvis Bay traffic circle, expected to be completed by mid-2025. Plans to transform Main Road 54 into a dual carriageway will commence in April 2026, further enhancing the national road infrastructure.
The successful oversight of the project by the Roads Authority and the contributions from UNIK/Thohi Joint Venture and SMEC Namibia were acknowledged as vital to this achievement. The completion of the freeway underscores Namibia’s commitment to economic growth and integrating the region.
As we commemorate this milestone, we remember founding President Sam Nujoma, whose Vision 2030 for Namibia continues to inspire every completed infrastructure project and job created, shaping a prosperous future for succeeding generations. President Mbumba concluded the ceremony by officially declaring the Dr Hifikepunye Pohamba Freeway open, marking another step towards a connected and thriving Namibia.
The Dr Hifikepunye Pohamba Freeway, inaugurated on March 7, 2025, is a pivotal development in Namibia’s infrastructure, enhancing economic growth and regional integration. This project not only recognizes former President Pohamba’s contributions but also aligns with the nation’s vision for a prosperous and connected future. Consistent job creation and local investment underscore the benefits of such initiatives, ensuring ongoing progress for Namibia and its people.
Original Source: www.namibian.com.na
