Oshakati hospital now serving over 1.2m patients

Despite only having a 750-bed capacity, the Oshakati Intermediate Hospital now serves 1.2 million patients a year. This was revealed by medical superintendent Dr Ruben Kanime on Tuesday, who pleaded with the private sector to come to the aid of the leading health centre in the north. Kanime said since the recently released preliminary census statistics, the hospital’s catchment has increased, making it even more difficult to cope with the demand. He was speaking at a handover ceremony for haemodialysis catheters valued at N$110 000, which were donated to the hospital by FNB Namibia. Specialised servicesKanime revealed that the hospital has established a 15-bed dialysis unit, but added that the demand for haemodialysis services far exceeds what is available. He said the hospital received a donation of dialysis equipment from Debmarine Namibia valued at N$1.5 million last month. Kanime added that FNB has become a seasoned partner, highlighting that in March they received masks, gloves and daily consumable to the tune of N$15 000. In June, the bank sponsored nappies for the maternity ward worth N$10 000. The items came at the right time, Kanime said.“As you are aware, this is the only hospital in the north which offers specialised services. Our catchment population has increased. Take into consideration the dynamic demographic patterns. All those factors make it impossible for the government alone to provide quality services to the needy.”He said between April 2023 and March this year, the hospital recorded 133 new cases of kidney-related ailments requiring dialysis.N$30m investedFNB area manager for the far north Abongile Mpikwa said over the past 10 years, the FirstRand Namibia Foundation Trust has invested N$30 million in community and health, underscoring its deep commitment to improving the health and quality of life for all. Mpikwa said a haemodialysis catheter is a crucial medical device designed to support individuals suffering from end-stage kidney disease. "Haemodialysis catheters are essential in kidney replacement therapy, serving as a bridge to long-term vascular access such as arteriovenous grafts," he said, adding that the bank’s donation represents more than just a medical device, “it symbolises hope, resilience and the collective support those in need”. Mpikwa added that FNB Namibia remains committed to partnering with government to provide healthcare services to all Namibians.

Oshakati hospital now serving over 1.2m patients

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Namibian Sun 2025-04-25

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Oshakati hospital now serving over 1.2m patients

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Namibian Sun 2025-04-25

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