‘World-class’ healthcare facility breaks ground in Karibib

The groundbreaking ceremony for Karibib’s new 'world-class' medical centre took place on Thursday, marking a significant milestone in the town's healthcare infrastructure. The facility, located in the Usab area near the existing clinic, is set to transform medical services for Karibib and its surrounding communities.Funded by QKR Navachab Gold Mine, this project represents the mine’s largest single corporate social investment to date, with an estimated contribution of N$20 million. The mine’s managing director, George Botshiwe, described the project as a “world-class facility” that, while not a private hospital, will function as a fully public institution under the management of the Ministry of Health and Social Services. He stressed that this investment ensures that quality healthcare services will reach those who need them most.Health minister Kalumbi Shangula, who officiated the groundbreaking ceremony, highlighted the growing need for expanded healthcare services due to an increasing population driven by economic activities such as mining and port development. He pointed out that the existing clinic, inaugurated in 2004, has served as a vital healthcare provider for Karibib residents, but demographic shifts and economic growth have necessitated an expansion. Urban migration, largely influenced by drought and employment opportunities, has also contributed to a surge in demand for medical care.Recognising this necessity, the ministry is investing in a new health centre to significantly enhance public health services in Karibib and its surrounding areas. Shangula emphasised that public health initiatives must be data-driven for effective planning. He cited district health data showing a steady increase in tuberculosis patients receiving treatment since 2021 at the Karibib clinic. Additionally, immunisation rates and overall patient visits have been on the rise.To meet the increasing demand, the Ministry of Health and Social Services has appointed a full-time medical doctor and a pharmacy assistant at the facility. Shangula described this as a deliberate intervention to ensure the provision of critical healthcare services, reinforcing the importance of accessible healthcare in promoting equity. He stressed that all individuals, regardless of socioeconomic status, should have access to essential medical services.The Karibib Town Council was also commended for donating land worth N$3 million for the construction of the facility. Shangula acknowledged the council’s contribution, contrasting it with other councils that charge for hospital land while offering free land to churches. “While the church heals the soul, the ministry heals the body. There should be no discrimination,” he remarked.In addition to the Karibib project, Shangula announced the completion of a neonatal facility at Swakopmund District Hospital, with the official handover scheduled for 25 March. This new facility will provide essential specialised care for vulnerable newborns, eliminating the need for patient transfers to Windhoek and significantly improving health outcomes for infants.Further demonstrating its commitment to community development, QKR Navachab Gold Mine recently opened a mortuary at Otjimbingwe, a settlement 50 kilometres away, at a cost of N$4.5 million.Construction of the new Karibib medical centre is expected to begin before June and will be completed in three phases. The first phase will focus on establishing the maternity ward, followed by additional hospital beds, an operating theatre, a kitchen, a laundry unit, and staff quarters. The facility will offer a comprehensive range of medical services, including trauma care, rehabilitation, imaging, maternity services, orthopaedics, psychiatric care, and general medical treatment.Erongo governor Neville Andre praised the initiative, stating that the new centre will provide essential medical services while alleviating pressure on existing healthcare facilities. He emphasised that, unlike some mines that operate temporarily, this investment will leave a lasting impact, ensuring healthcare access for future generations. "This is an example of what we can achieve when we work together,” he stated.Karibib mayor Davey van Wyk also underscored the facility’s community benefits, highlighting that it will serve the entire constituency. He reaffirmed that the land belongs to the people and that this investment ensures that every resident will have access to healthcare when they need it most.

‘World-class’ healthcare facility breaks ground in Karibib

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Namibian Sun 2025-03-17

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‘World-class’ healthcare facility breaks ground in Karibib

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Namibian Sun 2025-03-17

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