OMPUNDJA – The N$4 million upgrades of the Ompundja Healthcare Clinic is expected to significantly improve access to medical services for residents, many of whom have for years walked long distances to seek treatment and collect medication.
The upgraded facility will especially benefit the elderly, pregnant women, people with disabilities and children, who previously struggled to reach distant health centres in neighbouring areas.
The clinic was officially inaugurated on Friday by health minister Dr Esperance Luvindao.
She said government investment should prioritise healthcare facilities that directly serve patients.
“We serve our people best when we invest in facilities where patients receive treatment and medication,” she said.
The minister made the remarks during the opening of the upgraded Ompundja Healthcare Clinic, which forms part of the ministry’s broader efforts to improve healthcare delivery across the country.
Luvindao warned that the ministry will this year take a firm stance against contractors who delay health projects.
She said contracts will be terminated where necessary to ensure timely delivery
of healthcare facilities in all 14 regions.
“We cannot afford delays when people are waiting for healthcare services,” she said.
Oshakati East councillor Abner Shikongo, speaking on behalf of the Ompundja constituency councillor, welcomed the clinic upgrade, describing it as a long-awaited development for the community.
“This clinic will reduce long walking distances for our people, particularly the elderly and pregnant women. It brings healthcare closer to where people live,” Shikongo said.
He added that the improved facility would restore dignity to patients, who previously had to travel long distances or relied on transport they could not always afford.
Residents who attended the inauguration said the clinic upgrade would ease the burden on households.
Maria Nandjebo, a resident of Ompundja, said accessing healthcare had been a challenge for many families.
“When our children were sick, we had to walk very far or wait for transport. Now the clinic is close, and we can get help quickly,” she said.
Another resident, Johannes Amutenya, said the upgrade would improve access to medication.
“Sometimes, you arrive at the clinic already tired before you even see a nurse. This clinic will save us time and energy,” he said.
Selma Iiyambo, an elderly resident, said the distance to health facilities had been particularly difficult for older people.
“Walking far when you are sick is painful. This clinic gives us relief,” she said.