Maria David
A GROUNDBREAKING ceremony held on Tuesday marked the official commencement of construction for a multi-million-dollar healthcare facility in Ongwediva, a joint venture between the Namibian Oncology Centre (NOC) and Medical Imaging, valued at nearly N$160 million.
This significant investment is poised to transform healthcare accessibility across northern Namibia and beyond.
The construction work, undertaken by Ongwediva-based Accurate Construction, is expected to be completed by 30 June 2026, with the official opening planned for July 2026.
The project is anticipated to employ about 60 local people.
Speaking at the ceremony, Oshana Governor Hofni Iipinge said that this centre is not only for the people of Ongwediva or the Oshana Region — it will serve over 850,000 residents across the northern regions of Omusati, Ohangwena, Oshikoto and even neighbours beyond Namibia’s borders.
Iipinge stressed the considerable reduction in travel for patients seeking vital medical care.
He indicated that people will no longer need to travel more than 600 kilometres to Windhoek to access vital cancer treatment and diagnostic services.
“This development brings quality healthcare closer to home. It strengthens our support systems and gives families the chance to face health challenges together and not far from their loved ones,” he said.
Beyond its direct healthcare impact, Iipinge affirmed the project’s role as a catalyst for economic growth, noting that it creates jobs — both directly through construction and operations, and indirectly through supporting sectors.
He further said that the facility positions Ongwediva as a healthcare hub, and opens the door for further private-sector investment in health and infrastructure.
Speaking at the same occasion, Dr Ryan Volker, a partner at Medical Imaging, underscored his organisation’s long-standing commitment to diagnostic excellence.
He said that since 1998, Medical Imaging has set the standard for excellence in diagnostic imaging in Namibia.
Volker expressed pride in their expansion, stating they are now extending their capabilities, expertise, and professionalism to serve not only the Oshana Region but also provide easy and convenient imaging access to the entire north of Namibia.
Volker revealed that Medical Imaging had been considering expanding to the North for several years, with the collaboration with NOC proving to be the final catalyst they needed.
“I would like to stress that we are an ethically and entirely independent branch which will not only assist the oncology centre but welcomes all referrals from local and regional doctors,” he said.
He further added that the new radiology facility will elevate standards by expanding local and regional capacity.
Volker detailed their vision for state-of-the-art MRI, CT, ultrasound, digital mammography and radiography suites, integrated with AI-enhanced workflows, and designed with patient comfort and safety at the forefront.
He stressed that more than the technology, it’s the people. Their expert and well-trained team of sonographers, radiographers and staff, supported by a wealth of knowledge shared among their experienced and ever-growing team of 12 radiologists — will breathe life into these walls and make this centre truly exceptional.
