KATIMA MULILO – Health Minister Dr Kalumbi Shangula on Friday commissioned a purpose-built medical boat aimed at bridging the gap in healthcare access for communities in flood-prone areas in Zambezi region.
“We gathered here today for a very special occasion to witness the commissioning of a purpose-built boat, designed to facilitate the transportation of health workers and patients on the water course,” said Shangula. The boat, donated by the United States President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) at a cost of over N$600 000, is set to serve as a crucial healthcare lifeline for remote communities.
The minister said that the donation marks a significant milestone in Namibia’s ongoing mission to provide integrated, affordable and quality healthcare services.
“The geography of the Zambezi Region presents unique challenges, particularly during the rainy season when flooding disrupts access to essential health services,” Shangula stated.
Shangula added the boat is a targeted solution to ensure that all citizens, irrespective of location, have access to necessary healthcare services.
The introduction of the medical boat aligns with Namibia’s recently approved Universal Health Coverage (UHC) policy.
“Namibia’s UHC Service Coverage Index currently stands at 63%—one of the highest in the SADC region,” Shangula noted.
Recognising the growing impact of climate change on healthcare service delivery, the minister underscored the need for innovative solutions. “Recurrent floods not only disrupt everyday life but also hinder critical healthcare services. This boat is not just a mode of transport – it is a lifeline. It can make a huge difference in maternal and child health services, as well as in managing disease outbreaks,” he said.
Speaking at the event, Kabbe North constituency councillor Bernhard Sisamu echoed Shangula’s sentiments, urging local communities to take responsibility for maintaining the donated boat.
“This boat is an invaluable resource, and it is imperative that we all take ownership of it. Let us work together to safeguard and maintain it so that it can serve us for many years to come,” Sisamu stated.