Health ministry, B2Gold launch N$6m Otjiwarongo clinic
Construction set to be completed by November
The ministry's N$10.9 billion budget allocation demonstrates that government "takes the health and well-being of its people seriously", Shangula said.
The health ministry - with the support of B2Gold Mine - yesterday hosted a groundbreaking ceremony in Otjiwarongo for the Ombili Clinic, reportedly worth N$6 million.
During the ceremony, B2Gold country manager John Roos said the clinic will be unveiled in November. "As we fast-track this project, we hope to partner with like-minded people, developing the perfect partnership,” he said.
“In 2019, we initiated the construction of Ombili Primary School, which currently accommodates about 1 300 learners, facilitated by a team of 30 dedicated teachers, five volunteers and one person for administration.
“We are the exclusive benefactors of this project and have completed 24 classrooms and two classroom blocks to date. This year, we will construct an additional eight classroom blocks, a library, a science lab and a sports field," Roos said.
Universal health coverage
Health minister Dr Kalumbi Shangula emphasised the importance of continued investment to make universal health coverage in Namibia a reality.
"As we work towards the realisation of universal health coverage in Namibia, we must continue to prioritise investments in primary healthcare, which serve as the foundation of a comprehensive and responsive health system.
“The construction and upgrading of the Ombili Clinic means that more health services are brought closer to the people. It means that our people will no longer have to walk or travel long distances to access healthcare services, especially for ailments that can be treated and managed within a primary healthcare setting,” he said.
The clinic is set to provide comprehensive healthcare services, including immunisations, antenatal and postnatal care, HIV and TB treatment, dental care and pharmaceutical services, Shangula said.
He added that the ministry received a total budget allocation of N$10.9 billion this year, demonstrating that "the Namibian government takes the health and well-being of its people seriously".
"Other projects completed recently include the renovation of the Okakarara District Hospital's laundry and kitchen in the Otjozondupa Region. Also, there is progress with the installation of a solar water heating system and water softening plant [there]," he said.
During the ceremony, B2Gold country manager John Roos said the clinic will be unveiled in November. "As we fast-track this project, we hope to partner with like-minded people, developing the perfect partnership,” he said.
“In 2019, we initiated the construction of Ombili Primary School, which currently accommodates about 1 300 learners, facilitated by a team of 30 dedicated teachers, five volunteers and one person for administration.
“We are the exclusive benefactors of this project and have completed 24 classrooms and two classroom blocks to date. This year, we will construct an additional eight classroom blocks, a library, a science lab and a sports field," Roos said.
Universal health coverage
Health minister Dr Kalumbi Shangula emphasised the importance of continued investment to make universal health coverage in Namibia a reality.
"As we work towards the realisation of universal health coverage in Namibia, we must continue to prioritise investments in primary healthcare, which serve as the foundation of a comprehensive and responsive health system.
“The construction and upgrading of the Ombili Clinic means that more health services are brought closer to the people. It means that our people will no longer have to walk or travel long distances to access healthcare services, especially for ailments that can be treated and managed within a primary healthcare setting,” he said.
The clinic is set to provide comprehensive healthcare services, including immunisations, antenatal and postnatal care, HIV and TB treatment, dental care and pharmaceutical services, Shangula said.
He added that the ministry received a total budget allocation of N$10.9 billion this year, demonstrating that "the Namibian government takes the health and well-being of its people seriously".
"Other projects completed recently include the renovation of the Okakarara District Hospital's laundry and kitchen in the Otjozondupa Region. Also, there is progress with the installation of a solar water heating system and water softening plant [there]," he said.
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