Geingob opens refurbished Katutura emergency
President Hage Geingob officially opened the new and improved N$12.6 million emergency unit at the Katutura State Hospital together with Standard Bank and the Motor Accident Fund (MVAF).Project 9682 kicked off almost two years ago with a new resuscitation room with eight beds that includes the supply of oxygen and power to each bed.
This also included the conversion of the old room into a pediatric unit, as well as the extension of the gynaecological examination room, the conversion of storage space into consultation rooms, as well as the installation of a new air conditioning system.
According to the chairman of the MVAF, Dr. Herman Shitaleni, the fund has recorded a decrease in the number of road accidents and related injuries and deaths over the past five years. There was also a decrease in road deaths from 26 out of 100,000 inhabitants to 18.
"We have progressed from losing 700 lives a year to 466 lives last year," said Shitaleni.
He said the fund spends about N$200 million annually on medical expenses in addition to the N$85 million in other claims.
Standard Bank's CEO, Erwin Tjipuka, said the project emphasises that healthcare is not a privilege, but rather a basic human right.
"Quality healthcare is not a privilege, it is a fundamental right. Today, a significant step has been taken in realising the right for every member of our community," said Tjipuka.
"As we celebrate this milestone, let us remember that we are more than numbers. We are a community of unique individuals with unprecedented potential."
He gave the assurance on behalf of Standard Bank that the bank will continue to invest in the country and pave the way for an empowered Namibian nation.
President Hage Geingob shared this sentiment and added that the project is a "microcosm of the broader steps and interventions by the government to make the state health sector more accessible and more in tune with the needs of residents.
"We often hear the phrase 'health is wealth'. For a government that has been persuaded to ensure shared progress for all, the health and well-being of our citizens remains our greatest asset.
According to the president, cabinet approved a plan prepared by the Ministry of Health and Social Services to improve Namibia's public health system.
"Its implementation has already started all over the country during the current financial year and at a cost of more than N$16 billion," he said.
Some of the projects that are already being implemented include the construction of the Windhoek District Hospital, the establishment of intensive care units, as well as units for dialysis care at district hospitals nationwide. Additional projects include renovations of existing hospital buildings and the installation of oxygen systems at various health facilities in the country.