President Hage Geingob yesterday expressed shock over rising deaths due to Covid-19, saying even the government’s allocation for state funerals has been exhausted.
The President has accorded a number of state, official and heroes’ funerals to struggle stalwarts and traditional leaders, of whom the majority succumbed to the pandemic in the last couple of months. As a result, government has spent about N$4 million already on state funerals. “We remember in prayer all those who are ill, battling for their lives, and the countless families who mourn the loss of their loved ones. May you all be comforted,” said Geingob during yesterday’s Covid-19 briefing at State House.
“I have never seen a situation like this before. Let us hold hands to march on and obey what you are told to obey. Even money is finished for state funerals. We already spent about N$4 million. We are reviewing how to cut down on state funerals.”
The President said it should be everyone’s business to get vaccinated, as government cannot police people for their own safety.
Geingob yesterday also announced that the current Covid-19 public health measures, which include a partial lockdown, limitations to public gatherings and adjusted curfew times, will remain in force for the next 16 days until 31 July. Namibia has 109 356 cumulative Covid-19 cases and 2 270 deaths due to the pandemic.
Geingob also continued to thank all Namibians as well as healthcare and frontline workers for their tireless, daily sacrifices, which they selflessly render for the common
good. He reiterated that the disease does not move unless people do, which increases the risk of walking into it. Therefore, he warned people to avoid unnecessary movements and to stay at home.
The national vaccination rate for persons fully vaccinated currently stands at 1.3% of the total population, while 5% have received their first dose.
Thus far, 32 753 Namibians have been fully vaccinated, while 133 863 received the first dose. Government has set a target to inoculate at least 1.5 million citizens to reach herd immunity against the virulent
pandemic.
– anakale@nepc.com.na