Otjozondjupa warns of rising malnutrition

The Otjozondjupa region has recorded progress in public healthcare despite outbreaks of cholera, measles and malaria, as well as a rise in malnutrition cases linked to several deaths.

Governor John Julius //Khamuseb said in his state of the region address that malnutrition remains a major concern, despite maternal and child health gains reaching more than 21 000 children. Over the period under review, 615 cases and 31 fatalities were reported.

//Khamuseb described the increase in malnutrition as a grave concern requiring urgent coordination and intervention.

"While notable progress has been made in strengthening healthcare delivery, more must be done,” //Khamuseb said. “We must invest decisively in infrastructure, human resources and preventative healthcare to ensure that no citizen is left behind”.

He added that the region continues to face challenges including shortages of emergency and outreach vehicles, inadequate medical equipment and supplies, poor access to healthcare due to the region’s vast size, a lack of maternal waiting shelters and a critical shortage of nurses.

On a positive note, a cholera outbreak in Grootfontein recorded 188 suspected cases and 52 confirmed cases, with no fatalities.

//Khamuseb credited the outcome to an effective emergency response by health workers and municipal officials.

“The cholera outbreak could have spread throughout the country and been disastrous, but we contained it effectively and efficiently,” he said, adding that officials worked throughout the festive season to manage the crisis.

Malaria, HIV remain concerns

A measles outbreak was also contained, with only one death reported. Vaccination campaigns against measles, rubella and polio reached thousands of children, although coverage gaps remain, //Khamuseb said.

Malaria, however, continues to pose a concern, the governor said, with more than 21 000 people tested, 1 601 positive cases recorded and two deaths reported.

//Khamuseb said HIV prevention and treatment efforts continue to show positive results, with more than 10 300 people receiving antiretroviral therapy and strong viral suppression rates. However, 284 new infections were recorded over the past financial year, highlighting the need to strengthen prevention efforts.

Through cervical cancer outreach programmes, 2 597 women were screened, with 54 referred for further treatment.

To improve access to healthcare, medical doctors have been deployed to underserved areas, including Omatako, Ombili and Mangetti in the region. Outreach programmes supported by partners such as Unicef continue to provide healthcare services to remote and marginalised communities.

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