Kavango West records 25 000 malaria cases

The persistent threat posed by malaria, despite major prevention efforts, has been highlighted by over 25 000 malaria cases recorded in the Kavango West Region over the past year.

The figures, revealed by Kavango West governor Verna Sinimbo during her State of the Region address earlier this month, underscore the scale of the public health challenge facing the region, where malaria remains one of the leading causes of illness.

“Malaria continues to pose a serious public health concern in our region,” Sinimbo said.

She said the cases serve as a stark reminder that the fight against the disease is far from over, particularly in high-risk communities where transmission remains widespread.

The governor's remarks come despite significant progress in malaria prevention, with indoor residual spraying coverage increasing from 47% to 77% over the past year.

“This represents significant progress in malaria prevention and demonstrates what can be achieved through coordinated action,” she said.

Sinimbo attributed the improved coverage to stronger collaboration between government, healthcare workers, development partners and local communities.

However, the persistently high number of infections suggests that malaria transmission remains deeply entrenched in parts of the region, highlighting the need for sustained interventions and stronger community-level prevention efforts.

She said government will continue to intensify awareness campaigns and strengthen measures aimed at reducing infections.

Major health infrastructure improvements

Alongside efforts to combat malaria, Sinimbo highlighted ongoing investments in healthcare infrastructure across the region.

Construction of the Rupara maternity ward is nearing completion following a N$1 million donation from the Development Bank of Namibia, while renovations at Nankudu District Hospital are continuing.

Preparatory work has also begun on the long-awaited Nkurenkuru District Hospital, a project that remained idle for more than a decade and is expected to improve access to specialised healthcare services while easing pressure on existing facilities once completed.

The region has also conducted multiple rounds of polio vaccination campaigns as part of broader efforts to strengthen protection against vaccine-preventable diseases.

Sinimbo said government remains committed to expanding healthcare infrastructure, strengthening disease prevention programmes and improving access to quality healthcare services.

“The health of our people remains one of our most important investments,” she said.