Staff Reporter
THE N$21.7 million Onamafila Primary Health Care Clinic in the Okongo District has officially opened, bringing essential healthcare services closer to residents of 24 villages in the Ohangwena Region.
Minister of Health and Social Services Esperance Luvindao officially inaugurated the facility, describing it as an important step towards expanding access to quality healthcare and advancing Namibia’s commitment to Universal Health Coverage.
The new clinic is expected to reduce the burden on residents who previously had to travel long distances to access healthcare services.
Photos: Ministry of Health and Social Services-Namibia
Speaking at the inauguration, Luvindao reminded healthcare workers that infrastructure alone does not guarantee quality healthcare, stressing the importance of compassionate and professional service.
“As the ministry provides infrastructure, equipment and others, healthcare workers must take accountability for the customer service provided to community members that seek care at these facilities. We must reduce the number of complaints about customer service,” she said.
Luvindao called on healthcare workers to uphold high standards of professionalism, empathy and accountability and to ensure that every patient is treated with dignity and respect.
Ohangwena Regional Council Chairperson Lennie Efraim thanked those involved in bringing the clinic to completion, including the Ministry of Health and Social Services, architects, contractors, clinic staff and other stakeholders.
He described the opening as a long-awaited milestone for the community and commended the government for its continued investment in improving access to healthcare.
Ohangwena Governor Kadiva Hamutumwa said development should be measured by the dignity and opportunities afforded to citizens, particularly those living in remote communities.
“Progress is not found in the comfort enjoyed by a few, but in the dignity and the opportunities made available to every citizen, especially those in our most remote communities,” Hamutumwa said.
The clinic is expected to provide residents with improved access to primary healthcare services while reducing the need for patients to travel long distances for medical attention.
Luvindao also announced that the facility is set to be converted into a health centre.
“And now, ladies and gentlemen, it is my distinct honour and my privilege to declare the Onamafila Primary Healthcare Clinic, soon to be converted into a health centre, officially inaugurated,” she said.
