The Capricorn Foundation recently donated 10 infusion pumps valued at N$264 500 to the Gobabis State Hospital paediatric ward.
These pumps are essential for administering fluids to malnourished children admitted to the ward.
Veripura Muukua, Capricorn Foundation coordinator, in an interview with Nampa on Tuesday said the pumps were handed over last week.
She said approximately 2 000 cases of malnutrition were registered in Namibia this year, with 300 cases in the Omaheke region alone between January and June 2024.
The Capricorn Foundation’s health focus area strives to improve health outcomes by improving nutrition and increasing access to healthcare, she noted.
“We are grateful that we can make a difference in the lives of Namibians, especially children. Our support for the Gobabis State Hospital paediatric ward falls under our health focus area, where we address health-related issues and support better health outcomes,” she said.
Muukua said in March 2024, representatives from the foundation visited the Gobabis State Hospital paediatric ward to understand the malnutrition situation in the Omaheke region, and identify ways to provide support.
In response to the hospital’s urgent needs, the Capricorn Foundation purchased 10 infusion pumps for the paediatric ward.
This donation builds on previous support, including providing nutritional and protein-rich food items, valued at N$291 000 in February 2024 through a partnership with the Nutrition and Food Security Alliance of Namibia.
The infusion pumps and previous nutritional support are part of the Capricorn Foundation’s broader effort to address health-related issues, and improve health outcomes in Namibia, particularly in regions severely affected by malnutrition.
Governor of the Omaheke region Pijoo Nganate noted that the malnutrition crisis has been exacerbated by drought and food insecurity in the region.
“I express my sincere gratitude to the Capricorn Foundation for donating these infusion pumps to the Gobabis District Hospital paediatric ward; our most vulnerable are children.
They cannot stand for themselves. This donation comes at a critical time ,and demonstrates the importance of collaborative efforts in improving healthcare services,” he said.
-Nampa