New dialysis lifeline for Erongo patients

Patients requiring dialysis treatment in the Erongo region will no longer need to travel long distances following the official inauguration of a new dialysis unit at Walvis Bay District Hospital last week.

Speaking at the inauguration on Friday, deputy health minister Suzan Ndjaleka described the facility as a groundbreaking step towards decentralising specialised healthcare services and improving access to treatment across the country.

Ndjaleka said the dialysis unit forms part of a deliberate national strategy to expand renal care services to regions where demand has been identified. She noted that a similar facility was inaugurated in the //Kharas region last month.

"Upon opening of this facility, patients will be spared long journeys. They will receive healthcare services closer to home and the cost per patient to the state will reduce as well," the deputy minister said.

Erongo has seen a steep rise in patients requiring dialysis. Treatment at private facilities increased from 27 in 2024 to 54 in 2025. Many patients were also required to travel to Windhoek and other centres to access life-sustaining treatment.

The new unit is equipped with six dialysis machines, including one dedicated to an isolation room for patients with highly infectious diseases. The facility underwent renovations valued at N$1.6 million to accommodate the service.

Ndjaleka explained that medical officers and nurses were recruited specifically for this unit. 

“I am urging the staff members of this facility to ensure strict adherence to high-quality infection prevention measures and continuous professional development, to monitor patients' outcomes, and to ensure continuous quality improvement.”

Closer to home

Erongo governor Nathalia /Goagoses highlighted that with the commissioning of the new unit, “we bring specialised care services closer to home. We bring relief to families, hope to patients and strength to our healthcare system”.

Walvis Bay mayor Johannes Shimbilinga described the unit as a vital service that would reduce the emotional and financial strain experienced by patients and their families.

"As Walvis Bay continues to grow as a hub of industry, trade and opportunity, our responsibility is to ensure accessible, high-quality health services grow with it," he said.

Erongo governor Nathalia /Goagoses. Photo Leandrea Mouers

Deputy minister of health and social services Suzan Ndjaleka. Photo Leandrea Mouers