Hertta-Maria Amutenja
The Ministry of Health and Social Services (MoHSS) has raised concerns about misleading advertisements for health products, including aloe vera juice, that claim to cure ailments such as ulcers, gastritis, and acidity.
However, the lack of specific regulations governing such advertisements in Namibia has left a gap in consumer protection.
The health ministry’s executive director, Ben Nangombe expressed alarm over the unverified claims made by health product advertisers.
“If consumers are not well-informed, such claims can mislead them and potentially harm public health,” he said.
He acknowledged that Namibia currently lacks regulations specifically addressing the advertising of health products and their claims.
According to him, the development of such regulations falls under the Ministry of Trade and Industrialisation.
“These regulations can ensure that consumers are protected and can buy products that are certified and substantiated by scientific evidence,” he said.
While the ministry has conducted public awareness campaigns and encouraged consultation with healthcare professionals, Nangombe said more needs to be done to safeguard consumers.
“The ministry encourages the public to consult healthcare professionals before using new health products,” he noted.
The issue gained attention following criticism by medical doctor Bernhard Haufiku, who called for a ban on advertisements promoting unverified health claims.
He singled out commercials for supplements like aloe vera juice, which claim to treat ailments such as ulcers and acidity without scientific evidence.
Haufiku argued that such advertisements are misleading and exploit public ignorance.
“This is wrong, misleading, and highly unethical. It is certainly not in the interest of public health. These products, just like all medicines, should not be allowed to be advertised,” he said.
He also criticised local radio stations for frequently airing such advertisements, urging the Ministry of Information and Communication Technology to intervene.
“Together with other government sectors, we need to do something about these false adverts in Namibia,” Haufiku said.
