By George Sanzila
MASOKOTWANE – The Ministry of Health and Social Services is working tirelessly to construct and upgrade infrastructure needed to fulfil its mandate.
This financial year alone, the ministry intends upgrading over 10 clinics and staff houses in the Zambezi Region alone.
Among clinics that have been constructed are those at Kanono and the Masokotwane, which were officially opened one after the other by the Minister of Health and Social Services, Dr Richard Kamwi, last weekend. Speaking at the inauguration ceremonies, he emphasised that government was committed to bringing quality health services close to the people to improve their livelihoods.
“The construction of health facilities such as this one demonstrates the commitment of the government to bring quality health services close to its people.
The overall goal of the Ministry of Health and Social Services as set out in our policy framework is to ensure the attainment of a level of health and social well-being of all Namibians, which will enable them to lead economically and socially productive lives,” he said.
According to Kamwi the two clinics, which cost over N$16 million, is in addition to several health infrastructure projects planned by the health ministry during the current financial year.
“In addition to these clinics, there are a number of capital projects to be undertaken in this region during the 2014/15 financial year. The projects are the upgrading of Katima Mulilo hospital, Kayenda, Ibbu, Batubaja, Linyanti, Sachona, Malengalenga, Impalila and Lusese clinics and upgrading of staff accommodation,” stated the health minister.
Kamwi said the completion of the planned clinics would further increase health care services.
“Comprehensive health care services will be offered – amongst others, screening and treatment of ailments, immunisation, HIV counselling and testing, health education, ante- and post-natal care, growth monitoring and health promotion,” he noted.
Kamwi appealed for professionalism from health practitioners adding that the community needed to play its part by guarding against vandalism.
“Health professionals and community members should respect one another. We cannot achieve success without the support and cooperation of the community.
“The community and the health workers should work together in order to prevent acts of vandalism,” he implored the community and staff.
The events were attended by Swapo Party Youth League (SPYL) Secretary Dr Elijah Ngurare, who is said to have been instrumental in the establishment of the two clinics.