TSUMEB - A reefer container converted into a mortuary was inaugurated at Tsumeb yesterday to capacitate the overwhelmed hospital morgue.

The refrigerated container can accommodate 40 bodies, an addition to the already existing mortuary with only a capacity to carry nine.

“The hospital had limited space to store bodies that succumbed to Covid-19. Hence the business community saw it fit to assist. Allow me to commend the Tsumeb business community on your decision to donate a reefer mortuary to the hospital. This is a clear manifestation of your unselfish contribution and positive response to the plight of the health ministry and residents,” said Oshikoto governor Penda Ya Ndakolo in a speech read on his behalf by Tsumeb councillor Gottlieb Ndjendjela.

The container was procured and set up at a tune of N$275 000, through the Tsumeb Neighbourhood Watch, in collaboration with the business fraternity. “During the month of June, there was a high death rate recorded in Tsumeb due to Covid-19. About 1 767 were confirmed cases from 5 860 samples tested, while 1 651 have recovered, leaving only 65 active cases. So far, we recorded 50 Covid-19 deaths,” further stated Ya Ndakolo.

Tsumeb mayor Mathews Hangula cautioned the public not to be relaxed as statistics are decreasing, instead, should be careful of what could happen next.  “It has never been easy for all of us over the past few weeks, however, we should thank God as we see a decline in new Covid-19 infections. Therefore, we should not be relaxed, rather let’s continue to put on masks, sanitise, wash our hands and social distancing, if we are to turn back the smiles on our faces again,” stated Hangula.