ONTAKO – The office of Oshana governor Hofni Iipinge has partnered with Ziara Energy and Investment to construct a new healthcare centre at Ontako village in the Ompundja constituency.
The development comes through a public-private partnership aimed at improving access to medical care in rural areas.
The facility is expected to serve not only residents of Ontako and Ompundja, but also those from neighbouring constituencies who have long faced challenges accessing healthcare.
For many villagers, the new centre is a dream come true after years of travelling long distances for treatment.
“The governor has selected this place in the Ompundja constituency for us to set up a healthcare centre that we will donate to the government as part of Ziara’s corporate social responsibility. This will help people in this area, as they will not have to travel to Oshakati for medical services, it will be at their doorstep,” said Ziara Energy and Investment representative Arvo Mufeti.
He explained that the project is part of Ziara’s commitment to give back to the community and support the government’s development goals.
Mufeti further appealed to residents to protect the facility and take ownership of it once completed.
“We appeal to the community to work together and make sure the centre is not vandalised. It must remain safe and functional for the benefit of everyone in the area,” he added.
Iipinge praised the partnership, saying it shows the government’s determination to take services closer to the people.
He noted that the new health centre will include a nurses’ home and operate around the clock.
“We find it necessary to bring these services here so that our people no longer have to travel long distances to Oshakati or Ompundja Clinic, which only operates from 08h00 to 17h00. This facility will be open 24 hours a day, equipped with patient beds and delivery rooms for expecting mothers,” Iipinge said.
Residents of Ontako have expressed happiness and gratitude, saying the project will ease their struggles.
Many said they have been waiting for such a development for years.
“We have been suffering, especially during emergencies at night. Sometimes people lose their lives before getting help. This clinic will bring hope and save lives,” said resident Selma Nghihalwa with a smile of relief.
Another resident, Petrus Hango, said the new clinic shows that both government and private companies care about rural communities.
“We are thankful to Ziara and the governor. This project gives us hope because we know help will be nearby when we need it most,” he said.
Ziara Energy and Investment has previously supported development in the region, including the construction and donation of a police station at Onawa in Oshakati, which now operates 24 hours a day.