Outapi shelter a reality

The value and dignity of women must be protected at all cost says Standard Bank Outapi branch manager, Geroldus Kazondunge.Kazondunge made this remark on Wednesday when Standard Bank handed over the keys of the renovated expectant mother's shelter to the Outapi hospital in Omusati Region.For years the building, which was constructed through the assistance of various stakeholders, stood idle and was in a dilapidated state.This resulted to expectant mothers camping in tents under trees near the hospital, exposing them to harsh conditions that the media exposed on several occasions.Kazondunge said it was on this basis that Standard Bank forked out about N$300 000 to renovate the buildings, in order to create a safe and conducive environment for the mothers to be.“We must protect the value and dignity of women at all costs. As Standard Bank we are honoured to provide a place for the expectant mothers where they must feel safe and call home,” Kazondunge said.The two buildings comprise four bedrooms, which can accommodate up to 24 expectant mothers, as well as bathrooms and toilets and washing basins.Omusati governor Erginus Endjala applauded Standard Bank for their efforts to renovate the facility.Endjala however lashed out at the Outapi hospital staff for not clearing up the area where the renovated facility is housed, saying that after Standard Bank had spent a lot of money on renovating the facility the handover ceremony was done in a dirty environment.He ordered the hospital staff to ensure that the premises are clean upon his next visit.Endjala said the responsibility it does not only lie with government to take care of its citizens, but all stakeholders have a role to play, just as Standard Bank has done.Endjala further revealed that the tender process for the construction of a state-of-the-art shelter at Outapi, to be funded by the Social Security Commission, is underway.The expectant mothers were housed in a temporary structure at the hospital, which was funded by the Development Bank of Namibia, which gave shelter to 81 women.KENYA KAMBOWE

Outapi shelter a reality

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Namibian Sun 2025-09-19

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Outapi shelter a reality

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Namibian Sun 2025-09-19

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