Rundu: The Unit Manager of the Rundu Dialysis Centre, Augustinus Alpo, revealed that most patients treated at the facility from the Kavango regions suffer from acute kidney injuries caused by herbal intoxication. He explained that these injuries are linked to the use of harmful traditional remedies at home.
According to Namibia Press Agency, Alpo made the remarks on Monday during a visit by Kavango East Governor Hamunyera Hambyuka, who toured the centre to understand its operations. The Rundu Dialysis Centre officially opened in September 2023, initially treating nine chronic patients referred from Windhoek. Since then, it has become a key facility for renal care in both Kavango East and West.
‘We have treated around 50 patients with kidney injuries due to herbal intoxication. This highlights the widespread use of unsafe traditional remedies,’ Alpo said. He emphasised the need for greater community health education and early intervention efforts, which the centre hopes to expand in partnership with the Mini
stry of Health and local stakeholders.
Currently, the centre provides regular dialysis to 24 chronic patients, both public and private, who receive treatment two to three times a week. It is also assisting two patients preparing for kidney transplants. Additionally, the centre has served about 30 holiday patients, including visitors from across Namibia and tourists from South Africa.
Governor Hambyuka praised the centre for reducing the need for patients in Kavango East, Kavango West, and Zambezi to travel to Windhoek for dialysis. He also called for more public awareness, noting that many locals are still unaware of the centre’s services.