Niël Terblanché
Dr Esperance Luvindao, the minister of health and social services, made an unannounced visit to the Katutura Health Centre on Thursday morning.
In a video clip posted on the social media platforms of the health ministry, the minister said that the visit was aimed at gaining a clear view of conditions on the ground.
Luvindao added that the purpose of the visit was to engage directly with patients and healthcare staff.
“The goal was to come without prior notice. We want to hear what people are saying on the ground. There is no need to provide prior notice before my team and I, or anybody else, go to a clinic, a health centre, or a hospital,” she said.
The visit comes shortly after the ministry launched its new customer care services charter, which calls for improved quality of care across all public health facilities.
“We want to see what is happening on the ground on a day-to-day basis. What are the waiting times like? What are the patients experiencing? Are the people getting timely care?” she asked.
Patients at the centre spoke honestly about their experiences, raising concerns over long waiting periods, delays in receiving test results, and the urgency of care.
Healthcare workers also shared their difficulties, particularly the challenge of managing a high volume of patients with limited resources.
“We are trying to improve the quality of services we offer to every single person, without regard to their economic status. That is the goal, in line with our universal health coverage policy,” she said.
Luvindao assured patients at the facility that their concerns would not go unheard.
“My office will be prioritising these issues and engaging with relevant directorates to address them,” she said while also pledging more unannounced visits in the future to ensure continued accountability.
While her appointment was met with criticism of her nationality, the move was welcomed by many.
Merejam Hilya Nghipondoka commented on the ministry post and said: “This lady will improve the health ministry for sure. Let us give her a chance and be a little patient. She is what we have been yearning for, I guess. We love you Esperance Luvindao.
Eunice Ndaudika Heita also commented and said that it was a very good move.
“Please come to Engela also honourable Minister,” she requested.
Meisie Safoo said in her comment: “Good job! Seriously, I can’t wait for her to come to Gobabis. When she arrives there, I will make sure that I will be present that day. I just want to meet her in person.”
Walvis Bay-based legal practitioner Advocate Richard Metcalfe said in a letter that it appears that all the objections to the appointment of Dr Luvindao are without merit and are based on pure jealousy.
“The honourable minister has a brilliant academic record to her credit. In addition, she is talented, creative and hard working. She enjoys citizenship by virtue of Article 4 (1)(d) of The Constitution,” he said.
Metcalfe asked: “So what if she is/was/will be connected to luminaries in the public or private sector. That is the way to promote yourself,”
He added that the lady is an absolute asset to her country of birth.
“The abuse directed at her and the raging xenophobia displayed are symptomatic of gender abuse in Namibia. Whilst we should be basking in the glory of the international community for the first majority female Cabinet, we now look like other rabid political dogs from other countries who foam at the mouth at every public opportunity. Grow up and embrace talent, beauty, intellect and self-development!” he exclaimed.
Metcalfe added that the minister should be the source of inspiration for the youth and the source of pride for parents.
“It is time for Namibia to shine again and not skulk in the depths of self-pity,” he said.
