Author: Paheja Siririka (Paheja Siririka)

Although Namibia continues to be one of the biggest contributors to the high burden of tuberculosis on the continent, which causes concern, the Global Fund says 50 million lives were saved over the past 20 years around the world.

Forced by the many public health emergencies facing the world, the health ministry and its development partners continue to train frontline workers to equip them with the knowledge to respond to epidemics promptly.

Namibia achieved a national vaccine uptake of only 30.9%, compared to the global and national target of 70% herd immunity while the national target is 1 779 271 with the current population inoculated standing at 550 317.

Deputy youth minister Emma Kantema-Gaomas says Africa’s foremost resource is its youth, and Namibia is particularly not lacking in that regard as the majority of the population consists of young people.

Higher education minister Itah Kandjii-Murangi wondered whether Namibia has the right technological solutions for the developmental challenges on the ground - spanning from green energy, healthcare, food shortages, climate change and youth unemployment - to digital exclusion.

Omulunga Radio, Namibia’s prominent Oshiwambo commercial radio station, has expanded its horizon and recently set up a studio in Ongwediva in the Oshana region.  

Health minister Dr Kalumbi Shangula has cautioned and advised health professionals to treat members of the public with the necessary courtesy and professionalism, and to offer good quality services.

The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention as well as the Mastercard Foundation started an in-country implementation of the Saving Lives and Livelihoods initiative in Namibia to accelerate vaccination against Covid-19. 

One Blood’s Daphne and Victor Kaune as well as Ethnix’s Etjo Katjivari Kangumine and Julius Page Hamwele  will be touring the Omaheke and Otjozondjupa regions this week as part of Sanlam Namibia’s quest to promote and preserve culture among learners.