WINDHOEK: President Hage Geingob on Wednesday marked the official reopening of the Katutura State Hospital’s Emergency Unit following extensive renovations. As the country’s largest and busiest emergency facility, its refurbishment represents a significant moment for Namibia’s public health system.
According to NAMPA, this renovation is a key component of a broader, Cabinet-approved initiative aimed at enhancing the national healthcare infrastructure. He noted that the implementation of this comprehensive plan began in the current financial year, with funding exceeding N.dollar 16 billion. The president highlighted various ongoing projects under this initiative, including the construction of the Windhoek district hospital, the establishment of intensive care and dialysis units at district hospitals nationwide, and the renovation of existing hospital facilities. Additionally, the plan encompasses the installation of oxygen-generating systems across various health centers.
Katutura State Hospital, commissioned in 1975, has experienced significant wear and tear over the years, particularly concerning its physical infrastructure and equipment. Despite these challenges, the facility continues to serve as a critical hub for healthcare in Namibia. Regional and district hospitals throughout the country refer patients with urgent and life-threatening conditions to this emergency unit.
Health Minister Kalumbi Shangula provided further details on the renovation project, acknowledging the support of Standard Bank Namibia and the Motor Vehicle Accident Fund. Their contributions, totaling over N.dollars 12 million, facilitated structural renovations, as well as the procurement of necessary equipment and consumables. Additionally, Osh-Med International donated equipment valued at around N.dollars 2 million, and the Universal Church of Christ contributed various equipment and protective clothing.
Minister Shangula also shed light on the unit’s capacity and workload, stating that it attends to an average of 4,600 patients monthly, roughly translating to 150 patients daily. This figure surges to over 200 patients daily during weekends at the month’s end. The emergency unit is staffed by 35 nurses, 16 medical officers, and two emergency medicine specialists.