The Ministry of Health and Social Services (MoHSS) has officially inaugurated the long-awaited Kidney Dialysis Unit at the Katutura Intermediate Hospital as a response to the increased demand for dialysis services. 

Kidney dialysis, a process of removing excess water, solids, and toxins from the blood in people whose kidneys can no longer perform these functions naturally, is a major concern in Namibia. 

With more than 85% of the Namibian population depending on public health care services, the ministry has been unable to keep up with all required services, among them adequate facilities to treat patients with specific conditions.

Health Minister Kalumbi Shangula says the establishment of the dialysis programme is a response to treating chronic kidney failure at a more advanced health level and delivering life-saving treatments to patients in dire need. 

With the increasing number of dialysis-dependent patients, the Katutura Intermediate Hospital and the Oshakati Intermediate Hospital will both receive 16 new machines; eight machines will go to the Rundu Intermediate Hospital, with Keetmanshoop District Hospital receiving five, Katima Mulilo District Hospital also receiving five, and Walvis Bay and the Otjiwarongo hospitals each receiving six machines.

The newly acquired dialysis machines will not only increase capacity but also reduce the need for patients to travel long distances for treatment, which Dr. Shangula emphasised as an effort to improve healthcare access.

The Minister said the commissioning of this unit is part of a broader strategy by the Ministry of Health and Social Services to help enhance dialysis services across the country. 

He promised that similar units are being established at other strategic hospitals and are expected to make a significant impact on the lives of patients in need of renal care.