Namra donates seized PPE to Erongo health ministry

The Namibia Revenue Agency (Namra) on Monday handed over 27 001 surgical protective suits, valued at about N$1.2 million, to the health ministry in the Erongo region.

The agency said the goods were seized under the Customs and Excise Act of 1998 and later authorised for donation following approval from the treasury in terms of the State Finance Act.

Erongo health director Anna Jonas said: “This donation is a powerful statement of a shared responsibility and of our collective commitment to protecting the lives of the people of Erongo and, indeed, of all Namibians."

She emphasised the critical importance of personal protective equipment (PPE), particularly in safeguarding healthcare workers when responding to infectious diseases, handling biological specimens, and managing outbreaks.

She highlighted the unique public health challenges facing the region, including rapid urbanisation and expanding informal settlements where limited access to clean water, sanitation, and healthcare services can increase vulnerability to communicable diseases.

“Each of these situations underscores the absolute necessity of having adequate PPE readily available. A shortage during outbreak response can delay deployment, increase exposure risk, and ultimately cost lives,” she said.

Namra regional operations manager Patrick Tongo said the handover reflects the agency’s broader role in national development beyond revenue collection. He explained that the surgical protective suits were seized by Namra in terms of the Customs and Excise Act, 1998.

"Treasury authorisation was sought and granted in terms of the relevant provisions of the State Finance Act,” he said.

Tonga paid tribute to healthcare workers for their continued dedication under difficult conditions, saying the donated protective suits represent dignity, safety and protection for those on the frontline. “These… represent protection and dignity for the healthcare professionals who continue to serve under demanding conditions."