Staff Reporter
NAMIBIA recorded more than 8,000 confirmed malaria cases in the first four weeks of 2026.
“Malaria cases have been increasing significantly in most malaria-endemic regions of Namibia, over the past four weeks. As of 25th January 2026, the country reported a total of 8,760 confirmed malaria cases from week 1 to week 4 in 2026, compared to 5,229 cases for the same period in 2025. This is an increase of 68%, in relative terms. A total of 604 malaria admissions and 11 malaria related deaths were reported,” the Minister of Health and Social Services, Dr Esperance Luvindao, said.
She added that 20 health districts had surpassed the epidemic threshold and were experiencing malaria outbreaks. The affected districts include: Andara, Nyangana, Ncamagoro, Nkurenkuru, Eenhana, Engela, Okongo, Grootfontein, Katima Mulilo, Rundu, Tsumeb, Otjiwarongo, Omuthiya, Tsandi, Outapi, Okahao, Opuwo, Oshikuku, and Oshakati.
Luvindao revealed that the highest number of confirmed malaria cases have been reported in Katima Mulilo District, with 1,448 cases, accounting for 17% of the total, followed by Outapi District, with 1,287 cases, making up 15%.
“Namibia usually experiences seasonal malaria transmission. Seasonal peaks start in December and last until late April. Malaria cases are thus expected to increase during this time due to high rainfall,” Luvindao added.
She highlighted that malaria symptoms include fever (the primary symptom), headache, muscle or joint pain, chills and sweating, fatigue, as well as nausea and vomiting. She emphasised that malaria is a parasitic infection spread through the bite of an infected Anopheles mosquito, and if left untreated, it can progress to severe malaria and even lead to death.
She urged all Namibians and travellers heading to the northern and north-eastern regions of the country to take appropriate precautions to avoid contracting malaria. Luvindao stressed that Namibia shares borders with malaria-endemic countries such as Angola, noting that the disease is also prevalent among local cattle herders who cross the border. She specifically urged cattle herders to take extra precautions against mosquito bites.
“The Ministry of Health and Social Services regularly conducts indoor residual spraying (IRS) with approved insecticide to reduce the mosquito population. Insecticide—treated mosquito nets are also distributed free of charge to targeted communities in the affected districts. For personal protection, communities are advised to use insect repellents, mosquito nets and to wear long-sleeved clothing to protect themselves from mosquito bites. They are also urged to clear standing/stagnant water, and clean environment around the homes to prevent mosquitoes from breeding, Community members experiencing the symptoms listed above are urged to immediately visit the nearest health facility for care,” the minister added.
Picture for illustrative purposes only. Photo: File
