Hertta-Maria Amutenja
The Ministry of Health and Social Service is investigating the management of Rundu Intermediate Hospital after accusations of financial irregularities involving state vehicles, with amounts of money allegedly directed towards repairs that were never executed surfaced recently.
According to an anonymous source, three government vehicles – Toyota Hilux with registration number GRN 27602, Toyota Quantum (Ambulance) GRN 27756, and Ford Ranger GRN 27863 – were dispatched to Okondjatu garage in February 2022 for engine-related repairs.
Payments totalling N$203,106.05 were disbursed to the garage, yet the purported services were never carried out on the vehicles.
“Toyota Hilux was taken to Okondjatu garage in February 2022 to repair the engine, and N$52,985.66 was released to that garage, but the service was also never rendered. Toyota Quantum (Ambulance) was also taken to Okondjatu garage in February 2022 to repair the engine, N$61,128.81 was paid to Okondjatu garage, but the service was never offered. Ford Ranger was also taken to Okondjatu garage in February 2022 to replace the engine, and N$88,992.58 was paid to Okondjatu garage, but the service was never provided,” the source disclosed.
The source further revealed that the purchasing orders for these transactions were allegedly signed by an Administrative Officer, rather than the designated artisan mechanic.
Executive Director in the Ministry of Health and Social Services Ben Nangombe, said the ministry is aware of the matter and investigations are progressing well. However, he cautioned against premature disclosure of more information to avoid compromising the ongoing process.
“The first set of investigations into this matter were completed last year. We are on to the second stage. It is not advisable to share those publicly at this time as it may jeopardise the investigation,” he stated.
Despite the completion of initial investigations, no apparent action has been taken, leaving the source frustrated.
“These people here are treating government’s properties as their properties because no one can hold them accountable,” the source emphasized.
It is alleged that the Okondjatu garage, where the vehicles were taken for repairs, is currently non-operational. To which the whistleblower raised questions about the purpose of the Ministry of Works and Transport.
“We have government garages and mechanics, yet individuals seem determined to enrich themselves through corrupt tenders,” stated the source.
Moreover, the whistleblower called for action against Okondjatu Garage, demanding the repayment of funds and criminal charges of fraud and theft of government property. Additionally, they urged accountability for those who signed off on the purchasing orders.
