Namibia’s first cab requesting mobile application (app) was launched in the capital on Tuesday.
The founder of the app, Melkisedek Ausiku, at the launch said the app was created from a place of concern and care for fellow Namibians who endanger human lives by driving while under the influence of alcohol.
“The LEFA app is solely brought to you as a contribution to curbing this unfortunate reality,” Ausiku noted.
The word LEFA is derived from the Oshiwambo word for the act of requesting for a lift.
“Lefa was inspired by my passion to solve problems such as the bad habit of consuming alcohol and driving [while] under the influence of alcohol,” he said, adding that it is his wish that patriots who engage in social activities, where the consumption of alcohol is prevalent make use of the app to get them home safely.
Speaking at the same event, Namibia Breweries Limited (NBL) Managing Director, Wessie van der Westhuizen, emphasized on how LEFA speaks directly to NBL’s Stay Cool, Enjoy Responsibility’ campaign.
“All this is done with the aim of addressing this national catastrophe that begs a change of mind-set, behaviour and attitude of motorists and other road-users to complement the great infrastructure such as our roads,” he said.
He added that it is his hope that LEFA would become every bit as much a part of the daily routine of Namibians as a morning cup of coffee or a glance at Facebook, Twitter or Instagram feeds.
“NBL is proud to be associated with this venture and we extend our heartfelt congratulations on the launch of LEFA and a very successful partnership,” he stated.
The minimal service fee is N.dollars 40 for a sedan and N.dollars 120 for a bus.
The fare is calculated on the distance and time of customers from pick-up to drop-off point.