Oshana Region Records 26 Drowning Cases in First Five Months of 2025

Oshana Region police report 26 drowning incidents from January to May 2025, with most occurring in February and March. A recent victim, 29-year-old Mukelebai Herre Nasikambo, drowned while fishing at a man-made dam. Police urge public caution regarding deep water to prevent further fatalities.

In the Oshana Region, police have reported a total of 26 drowning incidents from January to May 2025. Alarming statistics show that February and March alone accounted for 16 of these cases. Oshana police commander, Commissioner Naftal Lungameni Sakaria, discussed these figures in an interview with Nampa on Monday.

The victims of these drownings have varied widely in age, spanning from just six years old to a 65-year-old pensioner. A particularly tragic drowning occurred recently involving a 29-year-old man, Mukelebai Herre Nasikambo, from Katima Mulilo in the Zambezi region. His drowning happened while he was fishing at a man-made dam in Oshakati.

Nasikambo, who worked as a domestic worker in Onawa village, was with his girlfriend during the incident. According to Sakaria, the couple had been fishing at the Omatale Gakatumale dam. “It is alleged that he was fishing with his girlfriend when he entered the water with the intention of retrieving a fish that had become entangled in an empty floating cooldrink container,” he explained.

Tragically, while swimming to retrieve the fish, Nasikambo became fatigued and began to call for help. Meanwhile, his girlfriend rushed to find assistance, but unfortunately, help arrived too late. The body was later recovered by divers from the police’s Special Reserve Force.

In response to the concerning number of drowning cases, Sakaria expressed his profound concern and urged the community to act with caution. He advised the public to stay away from deep water to help prevent such unnecessary tragedies in the future.

The Oshana Region has seen a worrying rise in drowning incidents, especially during the months of February and March. With 26 cases recorded between January and May 2025, including the tragic drowning of 29-year-old Mukelebai Herre Nasikambo, local authorities are emphasizing the importance of water safety. Police encourage the public to avoid deep water to mitigate future drownings.

Original Source: www.namibian.com.na