Health ministry pauses hiring amid tight budget

The health and social services ministry has confirmed that recruitment of health workers has been suspended until April 2027 due to budget constraints.In a statement, executive director Penda Ithindi said the clarification followed a petition by unemployed enrolled nurses who raised concerns about job opportunities and recruitment procedures.The ministry highlighted its investment in expanding the healthcare workforce over the past two budget cycles.Following the 2025/26 mid-year budget review, N$185 million was allocated to recruit 814 additional health sector staff, among them 449 nurses, 134 medical officers and dentists, 103 allied health professionals, and 107 administrative support staff.This inflow of healthcare workers helped decongest facilities nationwide and made 24-hour service delivery possible at several clinics across the Khomas region, Ithindi said.For the current 2026/27 financial year, N$241 million of the allocated N$259 million budget has already been spent. By the end of September, approximately 1 770 health personnel, including 1 320 nurses, were added to the public healthcare system, addressing both new positions and replacements for standard vacancies.Despite these additions, external economic pressures have reduced government revenue, forcing government to exercise budget discipline, the ministry said. Recruitment will remain paused until April 2027.However, vacancies arising from retirement or natural attrition will still be advertised and filled as needed, the ministry said.Addressing concerns regarding qualifications, the ministry reaffirmed the importance of licensing examinations administered by the Health Professional Council of Namibia (HPCNA). These evaluations are critical to ensuring that incoming nurses meet safety and care standards before delivering essential frontline healthcare services.Unemployed nurses were urged to ensure their records and contact information remain updated with the Nursing Board of Namibia under the HPCNA ahead of future recruitment phases.

Health ministry pauses hiring amid tight budget

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Namibian Sun 2026-10-28

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Health ministry pauses hiring amid tight budget

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Namibian Sun 2026-10-28

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