Sostenus Wilherm
The ministry of health and social services has launched an investigation into allegations surrounding the amputation of a young boy’s arm following treatment at Otjiwarongo State Hospital.
It cautions that it is too early to determine whether the loss of the limb was caused by the medical care the boy received.
The investigation follows claims by the boy’s mother that her son’s arm was placed in a cast that was applied too tightly by a hospital practitioner, allegedly restricting blood circulation and causing nerve damage.
The child was later referred to Windhoek for further medical attention, but his arm reportedly could not be saved and was amputated.
Speaking to the Windhoek Observer, ministry of health and social services spokesperson Walters Kamaya said the allegations are being investigated and that the ministry cannot confirm any link between the initial treatment and the amputation at this stage.
“At this stage, it is not yet verified that the amputation of the arm is a result of, or caused by, the initial treatment received at the Otjiwarongo State Hospital,” Kamaya said.
“Only the investigation process can confirm and review what transpired, and at this stage the investigation is ongoing. The Ministry of Health and Social Services will be in a better position to pronounce itself when the investigation is completed.”
The matter came to light after social justice activist Shaun Gariseb said the boy’s mother approached him seeking assistance and raised concerns over what she believes was possible medical negligence.
According to Gariseb, the family returned to Otjiwarongo State Hospital after noticing complications with the child’s arm, where other medical practitioners allegedly confirmed that damage had occurred.
He said the child was subsequently transferred to Windhoek, where doctors reportedly made the decision to amputate the arm.
Gariseb has called for support for the family, arguing that victims of possible medical negligence should have access to justice and appropriate assistance.
He further linked the case to previous allegations of negligence in Namibia’s public health system, including the 2018 case involving Theonistar Naris at Khorixas State Hospital, saying that this cannot be ignored.
The activist also raised concerns about challenges affecting public health facilities, including medicine shortages and their impact on ordinary citizens seeking medical care.
The Otjiwarongo State Hospital declined to comment on the allegations after the Windhoek Observer contacted them for clarification on whether it was aware of the reported incident.
Efforts to speak to the boy’s family also proved unsuccessful at the time of publication.
