Lahja Nashuuta
Residents of Havana have welcomed the construction of the Windhoek District Hospital as a move in the right direction.
“Our government is truly helping the nation with its initiatives. People will no longer walk long distances to see doctors at Katutura Intermediate and Windhoek Central National Level Hospital. We are very happy about this,” said Emilia Hangula, one of the residents of Havana.
Kanndje Mauendo, another resident, said: “The government has really thought of us, and they made a great decision. Now, we can benefit like other people who live close to hospitals. Secondly, the government should bring us electricity in case we want to take our kids or family members to hospital at night. We fear getting mugged in the darkness, because there is no electricity here, and this puts our lives at risk.”
The planned construction of the district hospital, which is situated on the outskirts of Havana informal settlement, has been hailed as bringing hope to thousands of inhabitants of informal settlements and a relief to those who have to travel long distances to seek medical assistance at the Katutura Hospital.
The hospital is strategically located in close proximity to the community within the informal settlement. This ensures accessibility and convenience for the residents in need of healthcare services.
With a focus on enhancing healthcare accessibility, according to the Ministry of Health and Social Services, the facility is designed to provide comprehensive outpatient and inpatient care. By offering a range of services, the hospital aims to alleviate the burden on Katutura Hospital and to minimise referral patterns, ensuring patients receive timely and efficient treatment closer to home.
In addition to medical care, health minister Kalumbi Shangula confirmed that the hospital will be equipped with essential ancillary services, including pharmacy, radiology, an outpatient department, kitchen and laundry facilities. Those services are integral to supporting the overall operations and functionality of the hospital.
“In addition to medical services, the hospital aims to ease the burden on Katutura Hospital and minimise referral patterns, ensuring patients receive timely and efficient treatment closer to home, he said.
The 500-bed hospital will be situated at Havana Farm 108 and is expected to cater to Havana residents and those from nearby settlements.
Vice President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has described the construction of a new hospital as “an important milestone.”
“It not only signifies enhanced accessibility to quality health care services; it also serves as a catalyst for the improvement of the living conditions of our people,” she said.
Ndaitwah said through each phase of the project, from site clearance to construction, and to the final touches on the buildings, hundreds of jobs will be created, benefiting individuals and families. Many will gain valuable skills and experience that will stand them in good stead for future employment opportunities.
The hospital, which is projected to cost N$2.9 billion, will have a day-surgery facility, a mothers’ lodge, a pregnant mothers’ waiting lodge, accommodation for staff and students, sports and recreational facilities, a training and resource centre as well as clinical support services and administration and support services. The completion of the project is envisaged for 2027.
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