Internet connectivity for more hospitals
The project has improved the way healthcare services are delivered to people across Namibia, even in rural areas, a government official says.
Government has spent approximately N$20 million to improve and strengthen communication network infrastructure at 58 healthcare facilities. The goal is to transform health centres nationwide into hubs of connectivity and efficiency. The transmission of data and better communication are promoted through the new technology, said Bro-Mathew Niikondo of the project management office within local ICT compnay Green Enterprise Solutions. He said the health ministry launched the project to achieve a number of goals, including enhancing efficient communication by facilitating access to email and the internet.E-systems
Additionally, the health ministry aims to improve the collection and distribution of data from the ground to the national level for faster decision-making. Infrastructure to integrate and enable systems to work together is being established. The investment is also expected to support the establishment of e-health and electronic systems.
"The project has improved the way healthcare services are delivered to people across Namibia, even in rural areas. Better communication between healthcare workers has enhanced coordination and responsiveness, positively impacting patient care," said Niikondo.
Once the ministry's e-health system is fully implemented and established, the resulting nationwide infrastructure network will improve the delivery of healthcare throughout Namibia, he added.
Among the challenges being addressed are various patient needs and the fluctuating availability of facilities, which cause logistical difficulties.
Progress ongoing
The health ministry has partnered with Green Enterprise Solutions ICT to execute the project. According to Green Enterprise Solutions, the first three phases of the project have already been completed, with more phases in the pipeline. The completed phases are operational, according to the local company, while the maintenance and upkeep of the equipment are now the responsibility of the ministry. Officials from the ministry have been equipped and trained to perform the necessary work, according to the company.
By the end of the 2022/2023 fiscal year, 35 hospitals had been completed, with internet connections and necessary equipment established, while an additional 23 health centres were completed in the 2023/2024 fiscal year.
Another 60 clinics and 18 remaining health centres are expected to be connected to the internet and the ministry's communication infrastructure by the end of the 2024/2025 fiscal year.