Namibia 2020 Crime & Safety Report

This is an annual report produced in conjunction with the Regional Security Office at the U.S. Embassy in Windhoek. OSAC encourages travelers to use this report to gain baseline knowledge of security conditions in Namibia. For more in-depth information, review OSAC’s Namibia country page for original OSAC reporting, consular messages, and contact information, some of which may be available only to private-sector representatives with an OSAC password.

Travel Advisory

The current U.S. Department of State Travel Advisory at the date of this report’s publication assesses Namibia at Level 1, indicating travelers should exercise normal precautions. Review OSAC’s report, Understanding the Consular Travel Advisory System.

Overall Crime and Safety Situation

Crime Threats 

The U.S. Department of State has assessed Windhoek as being a CRITICAL-threat location for crime directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests. Crime has been rising over the last five years. U.S. citizens have regularly fallen victim to street crime. The most common incidents are non-violent crimes of opportunity (e.g. pickpocketing, purse or backpack snatching, theft of cellphones, theft/scams near ATMs, vehicle break-ins), committed by thieves who rely on stealth, surprise, or opportunity. Pickpocketing and purse-snatching are most likely to take place in downtown shopping areas and other high-traffic locations where foreign visitors congregate.  

While incidents generally occur more frequently after dark and increase slightly on the weekends, thefts also occur during daylight hours. Avoid walking alone at night in the downtown areas, lower socio-economic/informal settlement areas, public parks, and other desolate or poorly illuminated areas. Additionally, criminals frequently target people walking the streets alone, especially after normal business hours or after dark, with purses, bags, or backpacks; they can easily resell electronics such as laptops, tablets, and smartphones on the black market. Criminals have recently brandished knives during robberies in Swakopmund and in Windhoek. Occasionally, criminals also use firearms to commit crimes. In most cases, assailants leave the victim unharmed after receiving cash and/or a cellular phone. Review OSAC’s reports, All That You Should Leave Behind.

Theft from motor vehicles remains a concern. These types of crimes usually involve smash-and-grabs, and are sometimes associated with violence. They can occur when the vehicle is unattended or stopped in traffic at busy intersections. In the latter case, thieves often attempt to distract the driver by asking questions, begging for money, or knocking on the driver’s side door. Meanwhile, an accomplice on the passenger side attempts to unlock a door or break a window to steal anything of value. This most commonly occurs in the downtown areas of Windhoek. Criminals use remote key fobs to unlock vehicle doors; jamming key fob devices in public parking lots is common. Manually double-check your vehicle doors to ensure the fob signal worked appropriately and, critically, do not leave anything visible inside the vehicle that would tempt a crime of opportunity.  The Namibian Police have issued a warning to motorists not to stop for any vehicles that appear to have run out of fuel or are experiencing mechanical issues along deserted roads. Criminals pretending to have mechanical or fuel problems have ambushed unsuspecting tourists. 

Residential break-ins remain prevalent, and armed robberies continue to occur. Criminals generally target unoccupied residences; however, home invasions resulting in violence do occur when criminals encounter residents. This type of crime increases in frequency during the December-January holiday season and during Easter week, when many people are away from home. Review OSAC’s reports, Hotels: The Inns and Outs and Considerations for Hotel Security.

Most businesses in Namibia accept major credit cards; credit card skimming and cloning do occur. ATMs are prevalent, and ATM card cloning also occurs. The rates of credit card and ATM fraud are comparable to that of the U.S. Report any theft/loss to your financial institution immediately. Use ATMs in public, illuminated areas and that have a uniformed security guard presence. Review OSAC’s reports, The Overseas Traveler’s Guide to ATM Skimmers & Fraud and Taking Credit.

Cybersecurity Issues 

Namibia has a growing communications network with reliable internet and data services. Reports of cyber scams and cybersecurity issues are rare. Most cyber scams proceed via SMS due to the large proportion of Namibians who own cellular phones. Most such scams involve phishing messages purporting to be from a bank or other reputable organization. The SMS asks the user to click on a link or send personal information. Make a habit of checking bank statements and online banking transaction history regularly to identify any irregularities.   

Review OSAC’s reports, Cybersecurity Basics, Best Practices for Maximizing Security on Public Wi-Fi, Traveling with Mobile Devices: Trends & Best Practices, and Satellite Phones: Critical or Contraband?

Transportation-Safety Situation

Road Safety and Road Conditions  

Driving can be hazardous. Although major roads are generally in good condition, Namibia’s network of gravel secondary roads can be dangerous, with flooding possible during the rainy season. Drive defensively on all roads to compensate for road conditions and the excessive speed and reckless passing tactics many Namibian drivers use. Driving at night outside urban areas is dangerous, as darkness makes it difficult to see road obstructions and animals. Those planning to drive outside Windhoek should plan to arrive at their destination before dark, especially in desert areas or via the Trans-Caprivi Highway between Rundu and Katima Mulilo. Vehicles should be in good condition and appropriately equipped (e.g. spare tire, jack). 

Road accidents remain a major concern despite relatively good road infrastructure and good road conditions. Road accidents are one of the most common causes of fatality in Namibia. Traffic fatalities among foreign visitors occur regularly. In urban areas, taxis often stop abruptly to pick up/discharge passengers, resulting in frequent rear-end collisions. Visitors involved in a motor vehicle accident should report to a police station within 24 hours of the accident if police were not at the accident scene, and to the insurance company / car rental agency the next business day. 

Traffic moves on the left, so it is essential to look right before crossing the street on foot or pulling onto a road in a vehicle. Drunk drivers are a major concern. In addition, auto accident victims are vulnerable to theft by those pretending to be helpful. As there are very few sidewalks or pedestrian crossings; be extremely cautious when walking, jogging, or biking.   

Police checkpoints are positioned approximately 15 kilometers outside the principal cities and towns on all major highways. During the holiday season, police may establish additional checkpoints along the B2 Windhoek-Swakopmund highway and near medium-sized towns. Most vehicles may proceed without inspection, but drivers should prepare to produce vehicle registration documents, personal identification, car rental contracts, and/or licenses on request. All drivers should plan to stop and proceed only when waved through.  

When overtaken by an official motorcade, pull to the side of the road as far as possible and promptly follow instructions given by the officials present.

Review OSAC’s reports, Road Safety Abroad, Driving Overseas: Best Practices, and Evasive Driving Techniques; and read the State Department’s webpage on driving and road safety abroad.

Public Transportation Conditions 

Public transportation is not widely available outside the capital. Taxis and municipal buses are the only forms of public transportation in Windhoek. Schedules and routes are limited. Violent assaults on taxi passengers are common; petty theft is prevalent and occurs on trains, buses, and in taxis.

Taxi drivers routinely ignore traffic laws (including signage), and often possess poor driving skills. These taxis are usually marked with a large letter and identifying numbers on the driver’s side door and rear window. Many taxis are in poor mechanical condition, with worn tires and broken and/or missing lights. Do not allow your taxi driver to pick up multiple passengers. There have been reports of additional passengers working in tandem with taxi drivers to rob passengers. 

Taxis found at the major hotels or reserved via phone (“radio taxis”), and reserved shuttle services tend to be more reliable, and will not pick up additional passengers. Review OSAC’s report, Security In Transit: Airplanes, Public Transport, and Overnights.

Aviation/Airport Conditions

As there is no direct commercial air service to the United States by carriers registered in Namibia, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed the government of Namibia’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards.

Terrorism Threat

The U.S. Department of State has assessed Windhoek as being a LOW-threat location for terrorism directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests. The Namibian government is sensitive to the threat of terrorism, and engages with international partners to combat terrorism. Any large public gathering could become an attractive target for terrorists. Transnational terrorism is a concern throughout Africa, as increased law enforcement and anti-terrorism activities in the Horn of Africa have the potential to force terrorist organizations to seek targets in areas outside their traditional sphere of operations.   

Political, Economic, Religious, and Ethnic Violence 

The U.S. Department of State has assessed Windhoek as being a LOW-threat location for political violence directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests. Public demonstrations are rare and are almost always non-violent. Most local protests in 2019 involved labor issues such as working conditions and wages. Review OSAC’s report, Surviving a Protest.

Anti-U.S./Anti-Western Sentiment  

Bilateral relations between Namibia and the U.S. are positive. Small-scale demonstrations to protest U.S. foreign policy have occurred near the Embassy, but they were non-violent. Police support during the few demonstrations has been very good.   

Post-specific Concerns 

Environmental Hazards 

Namibia is an arid, semi-desert country of over 318,000 square miles, and is the second-least densely populated country in the world. It can experience extreme temperatures, especially during the summer (November-February), and seasonal flooding during the rainy season (October-March) in the central and northern regions. Dry riverbeds occasionally flood, resulting in roads being inaccessible. Motorists should be alert to warning signs posted at riverbeds and not cross them when water is flowing. 

Namibia has a long coastline of mostly uninhabited beaches. The seawater is frigid, and the current is very strong. Trained lifeguards and other rescue personnel are rare. Use caution when swimming. Ocean drownings are not uncommon, even in populated areas such as Swakopmund. 

The poaching of endangered wildlife species occurs in Namibia. Visitors in national parks or game lodges should follow instructions from game wardens and law enforcement officials patrolling those areas. Poachers generally carry large-caliber weapons. Shoot-outs between law enforcement officials and poachers sometimes result in serious injury or death.

At wild animal parks, heed all instructions given by guides or trackers. Use common sense and maintain a safe distance when approaching wildlife. Even in the most serene settings wild animals pose a lethal threat. Lions, leopards, elephants, oryxes, rhinos, hippos, and crocodiles have critically injured and killed individuals in the region.

Baboons live throughout Namibia and commonly scavenge the belongings of travelers. Baboons in camping areas are quite bold in approaching and taking items that interest them. Keep your belongings and food in secure containers.

Climbing areas, 4X4 trails, hiking trails, and rivers are unpredictable and dangerous. They are often located in isolated areas without access to communications and away from any medical assistance. Dozens of people, including U.S. citizens, have been injured or drowned.

Critical Infrastructure Concerns

Namibia has extensive open territory between cities and towns. Fuel stations and vehicle repair facilities can be hundreds of miles apart. Bring extra fuel for long-distance travel. Most major roads have cellular phone coverage, but more remote areas, secondary roads, and even stretches of primary roads do not. 

Economic Espionage/Intellectual Property Theft 

Diamond and precious stone scams are prevalent despite government licensing and other controls. Those seeking to purchase precious stones should use reputable dealers. 

Thoroughly research any unsolicited business proposal before committing any funds, providing any goods or services, or undertaking any travel. It is virtually impossible to recover money lost through scams.  

Personal Identity Concerns 

Same-sex sexual activity between men is illegal in Namibia; however, authorities have never charged anyone with breaking the law. Discrimination based on sexual orientation is common, and many Namibians consider all same-sex sexual activity taboo. The law does not protect the LGBTI+ community from discrimination. Review the State Department’s webpage on security for LGBTI+ travelers.

Only a small fraction of rape cases are prosecuted and fewer still result in conviction. Gender-based Violence Protection Units intervene in cases of domestic violence, which is widespread. Units are staffed with police officers, social workers, legal advisors, and medical personnel trained to assist victims of sexual assault. A privately run shelter operates in the Khomas region and there are government shelters in other regions. Review the State Department’s webpage on security for female travelers.

Review OSAC’s report, Freedom to Practice, and the State Department’s webpage on security for faith-based travelers.

Persons with disabilities face limited access to transportation, public buildings, hotels, and communication accommodations. There are few sidewalks and no curb-cuts, and most buildings lack elevators. Review the State Department’s webpage on security for travelers with disabilities.

Drug-related Crime

Namibia is not a drug-producing country; it is a drug transit route. Most drugs available locally arrive via smugglers. The most popular drug is marijuana (dagga), which is relatively cheap. Other drugs (e.g. cocaine, crack cocaine, heroin, mandrax) are also available. The use of cheap, readily available crystal methamphetamine (tik) is also on the rise. Authorities strictly enforce anti-drug laws, and grant no bail without a court appearance. 

Other Issues

It is illegal to take pictures of government buildings, military installations, and key infrastructure, such as ports, train stations, airports, and along border areas. Authorities could fine you, confiscate your photographic equipment, or detain or arrest you. Do not take photos of people without their permission. Review OSAC’s report, Picture This: Dos and Don’ts for Photography.

Unlicensed purchase of or trading in endangered wildlife parts, such as ivory and rhino horn, is illegal and carries severe penalties including fines up to US $1.1 million and 15 years in prison. It is illegal to kill or capture any protected wild animals without appropriate permits. The Namibian government is in the process of dramatically increasing sentences for persons convicted of poaching and trafficking in wildlife parts. Read the State Department’s webpage on customs and import restrictions for information on what you cannot take into or out of other countries.

Police Response

The police emergency line in Namibia is 10111; you may also call 209-4111 in Windhoek, or any of the following numbers outside of the capital:

The major law enforcement agency is the Namibian Police (NamPol). Other law enforcement entities include Immigration, Customs, and the Anti-Corruption Commission (responsible for investigating and prosecuting official corruption cases). 

NamPol operates a Tourist Protection Unit (TPU) specifically to assist tourists who have become victims of crime. The TPU in Windhoek is located at the corner of Independence Avenue and Bahnhof Street. 

Law enforcement officers must produce credentials and identify themselves before conducting a lawful arrest. Whenever an arrest is imminent, comply with the arresting officer’s request. Do not challenge the authority of police or soldiers. An arrested person has the right to contact his/her family or legal representative.

Report incidents of police harassment to any police station, the office of the Inspector-General of Police, or the Office of the Ombudsman in Windhoek.  

Download the State Department’s Crime Victims Assistance brochure.

In case of an emergency, contact the local police in your area.  

Medical Emergencies

Medical facilities in the capital and in large towns are capable of providing emergency care and performing many routine procedures. Doctors and dentists are generally well-trained. Well-equipped facilities are rarely available in smaller towns. Find contact information for available medical services and available air ambulance services on the U.S. Embassy website.

Carry prescription medication in original packaging with your doctor’s prescription. Be sure to verify with the Namibian Ministry of Foreign Affairs that your medications are legal before you travel. Review OSAC’s report, Traveling with Medication.

The U.S. Department of State strongly recommends purchasing international health insurance before traveling internationally. Review the State Department’s webpage on insurance overseas.

Malaria transmission occurs in the Northern (Omusati, Oshana, Ohangwena, Oshikoto, Otjozondjupa, east and west Kavango, Zambezi, and portions of Kunene) and Eastern (portions of Omaheke) regions of Namibia. The CDC offers additional information on vaccines and health guidance for Namibia.

Review OSAC’s reports, The Healthy Way, I’m Drinking What in My Water?, Shaken: The Don’ts of Alcohol Abroad, Health 101: How to Prepare for Travel, and Fire Safety Abroad.

OSAC Country Council Information 

Windhoek has an active Country Council. To reach OSAC’s Africa team, email OSACAF@state.gov.

U.S. Embassy Contact Information  

14 Lossen Street, Ausspannplatz, Windhoek 

Monday-Thursday: 0800-1700, Friday: 0800-1200

Embassy Switchboard: +264-61-295-8500

American Citizen Services (after Hours): +264-85-686-0853

Website: http://na.usembassy.gov 

Helpful Information

Before you travel, consider the following resources:

• OSAC Risk Matrix
• OSAC Travelers Toolkit
• State Department Traveler’s Checklist
• Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)