Niël Terblanché
Namibia’s healthcare sector achieved another milestone on Wednesday, with the inauguration of a Negative Pressure Mobile Isolation Facility at the Outapi District Hospital.
The facility, a first for the Omusati region, was funded by the United States Government under its Overseas Humanitarian, Disaster, and Civic Aid Appropriation (OHDCACA) programme.
The minister of health and social services, Dr Kalumbi Shangula, hailed the facilitate as a critical advancement in the country’s healthcare infrastructure.
“This momentous occasion highlights not only a significant advancement in our healthcare infrastructure but also reaffirms our commitment to building a strong and resilient health system,” he said.
The state-of-the-art 30-bed facility is equipped with high-tech medical utilities designed to handle emergencies, including epidemics, natural disasters, and humanitarian crises.
According to Shangula, the use of such a facility, is a leap forward in the country’s capacity to manage infectious diseases, offering services such as clinical consultations, quarantine facilities, and specialised treatment for public health emergencies.
“This facility is especially impactful in the Omusati region. It is the first deployment of a Mobile Isolation Facility designed to respond to emergencies of public health concern. It provides a secure environment for both patients and healthcare workers, ensuring community safety and operational efficiency,” he said.
The minister acknowledged the logistical and financial contributions from the United States, which included delivery, installation, and personnel training.
He stressed that such collaborations are vital in strengthening the nation’s healthcare system.
“This facility is a testament to the enduring partnership and shared goals of improving public health services,” he said while tanking the US Government.
Shangula reiterated the importance of maintaining and safeguarding the facility to ensure its longevity and effectiveness.
He called for the regional health directorate and community members to collaborate in its protection and optimal use.
“Community members must protect our public health assets. Let us safeguard this facility because it is deployed for our benefit,” he urged.
According to Shangula, the facility will also form part of the Namibian government’s broader efforts to enhance healthcare infrastructure.
He added that the government is committed to improving healthcare accessibility, referencing several new clinics commissioned this year in other regions.
“A healthy population is a productive population, capable of driving innovation and fostering economic growth,” he said.
The minister added that the new Negative Pressure Mobile Isolation Facility at Outapi’s District Hospital is a demonstration of Namibia’s ongoing dedication to bridging healthcare gaps and increasing resilience in providing quality healthcare to all Namibians.
