EENHANA – Expectant mothers at the Eenhana waiting ward have complained of leaking water in the bathrooms, which forces them to wade in dirty water.  

They also complained about a blocked sewer behind their rooms, which emits a nauseating stench. 

The waiting ward, commonly knownasEwalanda, accommodates pregnant women from remote areas to avoid having them travelling long-distances when the time for giving birth comes. 

The facility, which is managed by the Eenhana Town Council, was constructed in 2004 and has now been in service for 21 years. This means children born to mothers who stayed there at the time are now 21 years old. 

Women pay N$22.50 per week to the town council to stay at the facility. Currently, the ward accommodates 54 women, with several beds still unoccupied. 

When New Era visited the ward on Saturday, many women expressed concern about their health, citing the unsanitary conditions as particularly risky, especially due to the sewage smell. 

Lonia Elia from Otunganga village, who has been staying at the ward for two months, said they have no other choice but wade through dirty water. 

“Sometimes we are scared to step into the water because snakes might be hiding there, since the bathrooms are always open. We are really suffering at the waiting ward,” she said. 

She added that the overall situation is not suitable for pregnant women, as they face many challenges. 

Another mother, Lusia Hamata, said they also face the risk of being attacked while collecting firewood far from the ward. 

However, the mothers also expressed appreciation for the facility, saying it has helped them stay closer to the hospital despite the challenges they face. They noted that although the ward had enough beds and mattresses, they had to endure mosquito bites. 

Approached for comment, Omri-Onn Kavandje, the mayor of the Eenhana Town, said the council was aware of the challenges faced by women at the ward. 

“We have budgeted funds during the 2025/2026 financial year to renovate this facility,” he said. 

He emphasised that the town council cares about the expectant mothers and recognises the importance of providing a conducive environment for them. 

Kavandje added that the council has partnered the Eenhana Vocational Training Centre to engage trainees in the renovation of the facility. 

“The training centre will send students to assess the situation, and once the assessment is complete, the council will approve funds for the renovations,” he said. 

He appealed to the mothers to be patient and continue making use of the ward. 

fhamalwa@nepc.com.na