KEETMANSHOOP – A luxury Rovos Rail passenger train derailed in southern Namibia early Sunday morning (1 March), killing two crew members when a bridge collapsed beneath the train.
The southbound train from Windhoek was involved in the accident at 04:45 near Naute, approximately 285 kilometres short of Ariamsvlei and the South African border, according to a statement from Rovos Rail.
The cause was identified as a wash-away of the last span of a bridge, resulting in the loss of two locomotives and two utility coaches. The train’s automatic brake systems engaged to prevent further damage.



A luxury Rovos Rail train derailed in southern Namibia on Sunday 1 March.
Two crew members killed
Rovos Rail confirmed with “profound sadness” the deaths of a Rovos driver and a TransNamib pilot in the accident.
“We extend our deepest condolences to the families, friends and colleagues,” the company said in a statement.
Crucially, no passengers or other Rovos Rail staff members sustained injuries in the derailment.
Desmond van Jaarsveld, CEO of TransNamib, Namibia’s national rail operator, confirmed the emergency response plan was activated immediately following the accident.
“Our priority was and remains the safety and well-being of all employees and passengers. Urgent medical care was provided to all affected, and survivors are being supported,” Van Jaarsveld said.
Rovos Rail has arranged buses to transport passengers to Upington, from where they will be flown to Cape Town. Tiffany Vos, CEO of Rovos Rail, will personally meet the passengers upon arrival.
Van Jaarsveld said a full investigation into the cause of the accident is currently underway.
“We are cooperating fully with the authorities and once finalised, key stakeholders will be informed and appropriate measures will be implemented to prevent any recurrence,” he stated.
About Rovos Rail
Rovos Rail is an ultra-luxury private railway company that has operated “The Pride of Africa” journeys since 1989. Based in Pretoria, the company runs several luxury rail tour routes across Southern Africa, with each train carrying a maximum of 72 passengers in 36 suites.
“We sincerely regret this occurrence, but rest assured, the safety and well being of our guests and staff is paramount,” the company said.
TransNamib manages Namibia’s railway infrastructure and provides both freight and passenger services across the nation.


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