Windhoek: Minister of Health and Social Services, Esperance Luvindao, has defended plans to introduce a biometric attendance system at state hospitals, stating that the measure is aimed at improving staff accountability and is not connected to challenges in the supply of medicines. According to Namibia Press Agency, Luvindao responded in the National Assembly to an urgent oral question by opposition lawmaker Vetaruhe Kandorozu, clarifying that the proposed system and reported shortages of essential medicines are separate issues governed by different budget allocations. The National Unity Democratic Organisation (NUDO) lawmaker questioned the urgency of implementing the biometric system at health facilities, citing limited stocks of essential medicines, including lignocaine, vitamin K, and hypertension medication. Kandorozu expressed concern about the priority given to the biometric system over addressing medical shortages, asking why funds should not be redirected to stock essential medicines. He highlighte d that many public patients without medical insurance are forced to purchase medication from private pharmacies due to these shortages. Luvindao explained that the biometric system, to be piloted at Windhoek Central Hospital and Katutura State Hospital, is part of broader reforms to address patient complaints about long waiting times and the irregular presence of medical staff. The system will require staff to clock in and out, allowing the ministry to monitor working hours and enhance accountability. This initiative aims to address community complaints about doctors not arriving on time or leaving to attend private practices, leaving patients waiting. Regarding medicine shortages, Luvindao emphasized that the issue is not primarily financial but relates to supply chain constraints, including delays from manufacturers and suppliers. She argued that diverting funds from the biometric system to procure medicines assumes the issue is funding, which she asserted is not the case.