Hertta-Maria Amutenja
The Ministry of Health and Social Services has committed to repairing infrastructure at Tsumeb State Hospital after the facility flooded twice, first on 8 February and again last week, disrupting healthcare services.
The health ministry’s executive director, Ben Nangombe, confirmed that the ministry is working with the Tsumeb Municipality to address the underlying issues that led to the flooding.
Nangombe has indicated that improving drainage around the hospital and nearby areas is being prioritised to avoid further disruptions.
“The situation is under control, and we are working with the municipality to resolve the problem. We are addressing the channels that caused the flooding to improve the infrastructure,” Nangombe said.
The ministry has not disclosed the extent of the damage or the cost of repairs.
Tsumeb has been experiencing heavy rains in recent weeks, which have caused significant disruptions to infrastructure. On 8 February, downpours damaged three electrical poles at the Nomtsoub Pump Station, affecting the town’s water supply.
The same rains led to flooding at Tsumeb State Hospital, which was inundated again last week.
Tsumeb Municipality spokesperson Stella Imalwa-Nangolo previously confirmed the hospital flooding and said efforts were underway to manage the situation.
Hospital staff and patients have been affected by the repeated flooding, raising concerns about the facility’s drainage system and infrastructure resilience.
A hospital employee, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said water had entered several departments, making it difficult to carry out medical procedures.
“During the first flood, we had to move some patients to other areas of the hospital to ensure their safety. The situation was managed, but then it happened again last week, and we had to repeat the process,” the employee said.
Patients seeking medical attention had also been affected. A resident of Tsumeb, Maria Kaunatjike, said she visited the hospital last week only to find parts of it submerged in water.
“I was shocked to see the condition of the hospital. The floors were wet, and staff were trying to clear the water. This is not the first time this has happened, and I hope the government takes it seriously,” she said.
