WINDHOEK — Minister of Health and Social Services, Dr. Kalumbi Shangula, emphasized the urgent need to enhance Namibia's healthcare system during the opening of the National Ministerial Health and Social Services Conference on Monday. Held in Windhoek, the event convened policymakers, healthcare professionals, and stakeholders to deliberate on the challenges and advancements in the public health sector.
According to Namibia Press Agency, Minister Shangula laid out the objectives of the conference, which are to review the ministry's past achievements, pinpoint existing challenges, and devise actionable recommendations for improving healthcare delivery nationwide. He expressed a steadfast commitment to ensuring that all Namibians, regardless of their location, have access to top-quality public healthcare and social services. The minister underscored that the nation's healthcare strategy aligns with Article 95 of the Namibian Constitution and Vision 2030, which focuses on providing affordable healthcare for all.
The conference is seen as a critical platform for refining the contributions of the health sector to Namibia’s broader socio-economic development. Shangula highlighted a recently approved N$16 billion five-year plan designed to bolster the public health system by enhancing infrastructure, medical equipment, and human resources. Concurrently, the National Planning Commission is crafting the Sixth National Development Plan (NDP6), which presents an opportunity to spotlight health as a pivotal element of national development.
Reaffirming Namibia's commitment to Universal Health Coverage, Shangula referenced the recent Political Declaration on Universal Health Coverage adopted at the United Nations General Assembly, emphasizing health as a cornerstone for sustainable development and the importance of ensuring healthcare access without financial hardship.
Regarding human resources, the minister revealed that the ministry filled 506 positions in 2023 and aims to double that number in 2024. He acknowledged existing concerns over staff shortages and work attitudes, calling for enhancements in staff professionalism and patient care. Shangula also addressed the increasing social challenges that burden healthcare professionals, such as substance abuse, suicide, and gender-based violence.