Freeway extension valued at N$2.8 billion officially opens to public
The Roads Authority (RA) officially opened a 10 km stretch of the Dr Hage Geingob Freeway, valued at approximately N$2.8 billion, during a media briefing held yesterday in Windhoek.Speaking at the event, RA chief executive Conrad Lutombi voiced this milestone as a major step towards improving connectivity in and around Windhoek.
"Previously, the road was only open up to the Robert Mugabe interchange, but as of today, road users can access the Dr Sam Nujoma interchange, connecting Avis, Eros and Kleine Kuppe," Lutombi announced.
The development also allows travellers from Hosea Kutako International Airport to join the freeway via the Avis interchange, while those from Okahandja can connect through the Western Bypass. This extension is expected to alleviate congestion, especially for heavy trucks bypassing the city.
Looking ahead, Lutombi revealed that the freeway to the airport would be fully operational by March next year.
This includes the addition of the Finkenstein and Döbra River interchanges. “We are optimistic that by next year, the freeway will fully serve our road users, ensuring smoother connectivity,” he said.
Addressing concerns about the 4.4 km bottleneck on the Western Bypass, Lutombi acknowledged the challenges posed by budgetary constraints during the initial construction phases.
He stated that the RA has now approached the Central Procurement Board of Namibia (CPBN) for approval to commence upgrading this section.
“The bottleneck creates a dangerous traffic conflict. However, we are optimistic that with CPBN's approval, construction will soon begin. This will include a full interchange at what we call Sam Nujoma West and extensions to key bridges,” he explained.
Furthermore, Lutombi added that pedestrian safety is a priority, with plans to install overhead crossings on the Western Bypass to reduce accidents.
“These projects are anticipated to improve Namibia's road infrastructure by late next year, to solidify the freeway’s Class A status,” he concluded.