Maria David
SINCE its launch in February, the Oshakati Intermediate Hospital’s optometry centre has made significant strides in addressing the community’s vision health needs, screening 200 patients to date.
Minister of Health and Social Services, Kalumbi Shangula, said the establishment of this Vision Centre follows a successful refraction campaign conducted in 2023.
According to Shangula, during that campaign, approximately 2,200 individuals were screened, and over 1,800 patients received free prescription spectacles.
Shangula made these remarks during the inauguration of the Oshakati Intermediate Hospital’s Sustainable Vision Centre on Monday.
He indicated that the campaign highlighted the urgent need for a permanent, structured eye care service—a need that has now been addressed through the establishment of this Vision Centre.
“For years, Oshakati Intermediate Hospital has and continues to provide curative ophthalmic services, which include both medical and surgical interventions,” he said.
However, he said that many patients with refractive errors had limited treatment options in the public health sector, often forcing them to either live with their vision impairment or seek costly treatment in the private health sector.
Thus, Shangula emphasized that with the establishment and inauguration of this Vision Centre, more people will have access to essential eye care services, addressing unmet needs in the community.
“Patients in need of prescription glasses will now receive quality, affordable care closer to home; school-going children struggling with vision problems will now be screened and supported, ensuring better academic performance; and working adults will now have access to corrective eyewear that enhances their productivity and quality of life,” he added.
He stressed that the establishment of this centre aligns with the Ministry’s broader strategy to enhance preventive, promotive, curative, and rehabilitative services in Namibia, ensuring that no one is left behind in accessing essential healthcare services.
Meanwhile, Director of Programmes at the OneSight Essilor Luxottica Foundation, Naadhira Ndukuya, said the launch of full refractive error services at Oshakati Hospital is not just the introduction of a 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; it is a necessity,” she said.
She emphasized that clear vision is the foundation of education, productivity, and a better quality of life.
