In commemoration of World Health Day yesterday, President Hage Geingob paid glowing tribute to the country’s frontline workers, particularly healthcare workers and men and women in uniform, who have made tremendous sacrifices in ensuring they save citizens’ lives.
He said, in fighting the Covid-19 pandemic, the nation demonstrated that if the country is united, it can overcome any crisis.
“As a country, we must therefore continue to hold hands and identify areas that require urgent interventions for the creation of a healthy Namibia and a healthy planet,” he said, adding health is at the centre of any nation’s development, and our health sector remains, therefore, one of our priority focus areas.
Despite the fact that the country’s Covid-19 fatality rate has decreased, Geingob said as a nation, “we must continue to protect ourselves and the most vulnerable people of our community”.
“I urge you to continue supporting government efforts in fighting the Covid-19 pandemic and other diseases. Get vaccinated to protect yourself and those around you,” Geingob said.
He said vaccination is one of the most effective measures in the fight against Covid-19 as it reduces severe illness, hospitalisation and death.
The head of state also remembered Namibians who lost their lives due to HIV/AIDS, Cancer, Covid-19, Malaria, TB and other life-threatening diseases.
“Let us unite and create a healthy Namibia while at the same time protecting our planet against harmful emissions,” he said.
Geingob said apart from being a basic human right, health is fundamental to happiness and personal wellbeing.
He said, this year’s theme highlights the World Health Organisation’s global focus on priority areas and the need for the world to implement urgent interventions aimed at keeping humans and the planet healthy.
“We are called upon to work together towards a world where clean air, water and food are available to all, and where economies are focused on the well-being of society,” he said.
World Health Day is celebrated on 7 April every year to commemorate the founding of the WHO in 1948.
– ktjitemisa@nepc.com.na