New Oshakati eye clinic expands access to vital service

The Oshakati Intermediate Hospital officially inaugurated the Sustainable Vision Centre on Monday, with 200 patients having been screened since its opening in February.The centre was established through a partnership between the hospital and the OneSight Essilor Luxottica Foundation (OSELF).Health Minister Kalumbi Shangula said the centre was created to bring much-needed eye care closer to Namibians who cannot afford private eye care services.The minister added that the health centre marks an important milestone, signifying not only the expansion of eye care services but also strengthening a collective march towards universal health coverage (UHC) in Namibia.“The ability to see – the gift of vision – is one of the most essential aspects of human health and well-being, which influences every sphere of life, from education and employment to social interactions and economic opportunities,” Shangula said. “In Namibia, many individuals, particularly in rural and underserved areas, struggle with vision-related challenges. While public health facilities provide many services, care and interventions, we welcome partnerships that can extend our reach and footprint,” Shangula added.Blindspots Shangula highlighted concerns that many learners face learning difficulties due to undetected vision problems, while adults, including breadwinners, struggle with impaired eyesight that affects their productivity and quality of life.Renowned ophthalmologist Dr Helena Ndume urged parents to have their children's eyes tested to prevent various issues, including permanent damage and vision loss.Ndume added that parents and teachers are sometimes harsh on children who struggle with their vision, unaware that the child may need glasses.“As a child, they will think the way they are seeing is the way they are supposed to see, but they are struggling to see properly on the chalkboard. They do not know any better," she explained."It is our duty as parents to take them for eye screening. It also affects parents and workers, limiting their ability to earn a livelihood. It also increases accidents as people have limited eyesight,” she noted.Director of programmes at the OneSight Essilor Luxottica Foundation (OSELF) Naadhira Ndukuya said the launch of full refractive error services at Oshakati hospital is not just the introduction of a new healthcare service – it is a step toward ensuring that no one is left behind when it comes to the fundamental right to clear vision.“We are here because we believe that good vision and obtaining a pair of glasses should not be a luxury but a necessity,” Ndukuya said.She added that 20/20 vision is the foundation of education, productivity and an enhanced quality of life.

New Oshakati eye clinic expands access to vital service

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Namibian Sun 2025-03-12

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New Oshakati eye clinic expands access to vital service

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Namibian Sun 2025-03-12

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