Health minister Dr Esperance Luvindao has stated that the Katutura Intermediate Hospital has seen a 50% increase in patient admissions, compared to previous years.
The situation has forced many to wait for hours and in some cases, even days – before receiving treatment.
“Such conditions are fundamentally unacceptable. Mothers giving birth have had to endure exceedingly long labour hours in overcrowded wards. Chronic patients often struggle to secure timely appointments, jeopardising their health and well-being,” said Luvindao on the commencement of bulk civil works for Windhoek District Hospital this week.
She indicated that by embarking on the journey to develop the Windhoek District Hospital, they are not merely responding to statistics, but answering the need for improved health infrastructure and greater access to essential services for their communities.
According to the Namibia Statistics Agency, the Khomas region is home to 494 605 people, making it the most populous region in the country.
She said that, paradoxically, it was the only region in Namibia without a district hospital. This troubling reality had placed an overwhelming burden on the healthcare system – one that demands immediate attention.
“The commencement of bulk civil works symbolises the Namibian government’s determination to realise this project. With the contract awarded to Kongom Group (Pty) Ltd, in partnership with Genmael Investments CC, valued at over N$25 million, we are set to take the necessary steps towards constructing a facility that will meaningfully alleviate the pressures faced by our existing healthcare services. This investment will significantly improve access to healthcare for residents of Windhoek and beyond,” she said.
The medical officer said efforts were underway to bring electrical services to the new hospital’s site. The contract for this vital work, amounting to N$17 million, had been awarded and they are awaiting the necessary performance guarantees before proceeding further.
Windhoek district has 10 clinics, two health centres, the Katutura Intermediate Hospital, and the national referral hospital, which is Windhoek Central Hospital.
Luvindao said each facility plays a crucial role in delivering essential services. However, the reality is that these facilities are overstretched.
“The Windhoek District Hospital will serve as a beacon of hope, a facility dedicated to improving health outcomes and ensuring that every member of our population has access to quality healthcare services,” she said.
Luvindao hopes Windhoek District Hospital will become a reality that truly serves its purpose, which is providing timely and quality healthcare to the people of the Khomas Region and others from outside.