Mallex Shipanga
Access to gynaecological care is not just a matter of health but one of empowerment, dignity, and saving lives.
For many women, untreated gynaecological issues can lead to life-threatening conditions, yet access to specialist care remains out of reach for countless others.
Recognising this critical need, specialist gynaecologist and obstetrician Simon Emvula has stepped up, partnering with the Be Free Care Clinic to provide free consultations for women.
“Watching so many women queue up at the clinic, many suffering from serious, life-threatening, untreated gynaecological issues, was deeply disheartening. It served as a powerful reminder that, as healthcare professionals, we must do more to reach underserved communities,” Emvula said.
He explained that over 100 patients accessed gynaecology and obstetrics services during the initiative.
“After 14 hours of consultations, the overwhelming gratitude from these women made it all worthwhile,” he said.
Grateful to be able to provide such a critical service, Emvula expressed his appreciation to both the Be Free Care Clinic team and former First Lady, Monica Geingos for partnering with him to roll out the services.
“We are incredibly grateful to the dedicated and cheerful Be Free Care Clinic team, who worked tirelessly on their feet all day. A special thank you to former first lady Monica Geingos, who stayed on-site with us and supported the team until the very last patient was assisted,” said
The Be Free Cares Clinic offers young people, ages 13 to 35, a comprehensive range of youth-friendly Sexual & Reproductive Healthcare (SRH) to Sensitive Psychosocial Support.
Following the initiative, many women took to social media to praise the hard work undertaken by the OB-GYN Practice and the Be Free Care Clinic.
“This is so inspiring. There is no price to attach to these types of initiatives. May God bless the team and give you all you need to continue serving His people! Thank you for the care and love given to our women,” said Maria Nakale in a social media post.
“Thank you for giving up your precious time to serve women whose lives may have been threatened through untreated medical conditions. God bless you as you continue on this health-serving journey,” Carol Millward also wrote.
“This is an excellent initiative. We appreciate your service,” said Rukoro Grace.
According to recent estimates, cervical cancer is a significant health concern in Namibia, with approximately 214 women succumbing to the disease last year.
It is considered the second most common cancer among women in the country, with around 375 new diagnoses recorded annually.
