Windhoek: The nearly N.dollars 12.3 billion allocation to the Ministry of Health for the 2025/26 financial year will enable the ministry to continue transforming Namibia’s health and social services for the benefit of all citizens. This was announced by Health Minister, Esperanza Luvindao, during her budget speech in the National Assembly on Tuesday. The N.dollars 12.268 billion allotment represents an 8.2 per cent increase from last year.
According to Namibia Press Agency, Luvindao emphasized that this allocation represents 4.4 per cent of Namibia’s GDP and 11.5 per cent of total government expenditure, underscoring the government’s commitment to strengthening health and social services. She highlighted that this budget will support five critical programmes essential for the country’s social development and transformation.
The minister detailed key achievements from the past year, including the expansion of Namibia’s digital health infrastructure. All hospitals and 23 health centres now have network infras
tructure installed, forming the backbone of the e-health system. This digital expansion enables real-time access to patient records and improved health service efficiency.
Significant investments were made in clinical care, with new oxygen plants installed at major hospitals and upgrades to neonatal and oncology services. Dialysis services have expanded with two new centres operational and five more nearing completion.
The ministry’s public health efforts were enhanced by the establishment of the Namibia Institute of Public Health, which will improve outbreak response and epidemiological research. The country continues to make progress in the fight against HIV/AIDS, with 93 per cent of people living with HIV aware of their status and 95 per cent on antiretroviral treatment.
Looking ahead, the minister outlined ambitious plans for 2025/26, including an N.dollars 11.5 billion allocation to clinical services aimed at replacing outdated equipment, expanding intensive care unit facilities, and improving medicin
e supply chains. Luvindao stressed the commitment to ensuring continuous medicine availability and strengthening critical care, especially in underserved areas.
Social welfare initiatives were also emphasized, including expanding rehabilitation services and supporting victims of gender-based violence. Infrastructure development remains a priority, with new clinics and hospital upgrades planned across the country. Approximately N.dollars 10.9 billion was allocated to the ministry in the 2024/25 financial year.