N$6m clinic to serve Otjiwarongo’s informal settlements

To alleviate the hurdles faced by informal settlement residents in Otjiwarongo, the health ministry inaugurated the B2Gold Namibia-funded Ombili Clinic this week. The clinic was built at a cost of N$6 million.The clinic will bring essential healthcare services closer to the over 19 000 residents living in the Ombili informal settlement as well as the nearby DRC, Telecom and Xara-aibes communities, who currently have to travel long distances to the Orwetoveni Clinic or Otjiwarongo District Hospital to access healthcare.Health minister Dr Kalumbi Shangula said currently residents rely on the Ombili Health Post, which only offers limited services.B2Gold donated N$6 million six months ago to fund the construction of the clinic, aimed at improving Namibia's public healthcare infrastructure."Despite the existing health facilities, a gap in service delivery persisted for the communities of Ombili, DRC, Telecom and Xara-aibes," the minister said. In the context of universal health coverage (UHC), the new clinic will play a vital role in addressing healthcare disparities faced by rural and underserved populations in the region, he noted.Additionally, the clinic aims to provide comprehensive services that are crucial to reducing the disease burden in the region.ServicesThe clinic will provide immunisation, antenatal and postnatal care, screenings and treatment for minor ailments.It will also provide management services for HIV/Aids and tuberculosis, as well as management of communicable and non-communicable diseases, dental and pharmaceutical services, family planning and adolescent-friendly health services."Namibia has long been dedicated to achieving UHC, a goal embedded in both national health policies and global frameworks. Central to this commitment is the understanding that health is a fundamental human right and a key pillar of sustainable development," Shangula said.The clinic includes additional features that enhance its functionality, such as parking facilities, staff amenities, essential furniture and public utilities, which reflect a commitment to both the healthcare workforce and the community it serves, the health minister said.The minister said the clinic demonstrates the strength of public-private partnerships in advancing Namibia’s healthcare system.“This clinic is a symbol of what can be achieved when the public and private sectors collaborate for a common purpose," he said. He urged healthcare workers to care for the clinic and provide professional services. “You are the backbone of our healthcare system. The community relies on you to uphold the highest standards of care, and I am confident in your ability to deliver,” he said.To the community, he said: “This clinic is yours. Embrace it, protect it and help it flourish.”

N$6m clinic to serve Otjiwarongo’s informal settlements

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Namibian Sun 2025-03-05

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N$6m clinic to serve Otjiwarongo’s informal settlements

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Namibian Sun 2025-03-05

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