Joseph Kaula
Onanghulo – Minister of Health and Social Services, Dr. Esperance Luvindao last week inaugurated two clinics in the Ohangwena region worth a combined N$10.9 million.
The Onanghulo clinic in Onanghulo village, Ohangwena constituency, and the Onamukulo clinic in Onamukulo village, Omulonga constituency are now officially opened for business, aimed at expanding primary healthcare services in rural Ohangwena. Luvindao said the facilities form part of government’s national drive to strengthen frontline healthcare and ensure that communities in remote areas no longer walk long distances for basic services. “This inauguration is a clear demonstration of the Government’s commitment to universal health coverage. Access to healthcare is not a privilege; it is a right,” she emphasised.
Constructed at a cost of N$6.8 million, the new Onanghulo clinic will serve about 8,500 people from 24 villages in the Ohangwena East health district. The clinic’s staff complement includes two registered nurses, two enrolled nurses, one administrative officer, one health assistant and one hygiene specialist, supported by four community health workers integrated from the Endola catchment area.
Located approximately 25 km from Engela District Hospital, the facility offers outpatient care, antenatal services, immunisation, HIV and TB treatment, and health promotion activities. In Omulonga constituency, the upgraded Onamukulo clinic, renovated at N$4,2 million will provide services to 7435 residents across 25 villages. The clinic is staffed by one registered nurse, two enrolled nurses, one health assistant, one hygiene specialist and 12 community health workers responsible for household-level follow-ups.
Situated 43 km from Engela District Hospital, the clinic will conduct scheduled outreach visits to communities such as Onamutemo, Onailonga, Elundu, Iimbili and Engela la Shikondongolo.
Luvindao urged staff to maintain high standards of professionalism and called on communities to take ownership of the facilities. She noted that the two clinics strengthen the region’s referral network, linking households to clinics, clinics to health centres, and health centres to district hospitals.
“These investments are about more than buildings. They reflect a system designed to ensure that no Namibian is left behind,” she said.