WINDHOEK – The Namibian Ministry of Health and Social Services is awaiting the results of a forensic investigation from South Africa concerning the deaths of three children allegedly linked to a Namibian-produced instant porridge. The children:The Namibian Ministry of Health and Social Services is awaiting the results of a forensic investigation from South Africa concerning the deaths of three children allegedly linked to a Namibian-produced instant porridge. The children, two toddlers and a baby, reportedly fell ill and died shortly after consuming vanilla-flavored Top Score instant porridge in the Eastern Cape over a week ago.
According to Namibia Press Agency, Ben Nangombe, the Executive Director in the Ministry of Health and Social Services, stated in a media release that the ministry is in contact with South African authorities and will publicize the investigation findings as soon as they are available. Nangombe emphasized the ministry’s commitment to consumer food safety, which is governed by the Publi
c Health and Environmental Act of 2015. He also noted that environmental health practitioners within the ministry, along with local authorities, have been instructed to recall the implicated food products. The public has been advised not to consume the product until the investigation is complete.
The incident has raised concerns about food safety standards and regulatory measures in place to ensure the safety of imported and locally produced food products. The Ministry of Health and Social Services has reassured the public that it is taking all necessary steps to address the issue and prevent any future occurrences.