A collaborative approach is of paramount importance when it comes to increasing access to quality nutrition and protection services for vulnerable populations, including women and children.

This will address social determinants such as poverty, education, and food security.

Speaking at Gobabis, during the assessment progress on projects that are aimed at ensuring that women and children have access to nutrition interventions, WHO's Dr. Richard Banda pointed out that the region has made some strides in strengthening community awareness on nutrition mediation and mobilising for outreach health services.

Dr. Banda added that continued support from the government of Japan to Namibia's health sector through the partnership with the World Health Organisation has been significant in these projects.

"The project has also improved the quality of care to effectively respond to the increasing number of nutrition cases in Namibia and also includes the vulnerable regions like Omaheke."

The Minister of Health and Social Services, Dr. Kalumbi Shangula, stressed that the project marked a pivotal moment in the fight against malnutrition, hence the need to establish a robust monitoring and evaluation framework.

"The continuation of this project indeed yields more positive outcomes, as we found our strategies based on evidence and experience. I extend my deepest gratitude to the government of Japan for the generous donation and the WHO for their unwavering support. Your partnership is valuable, and your commitment makes a profound difference."

Japan's Ambassador to Namibia, Hisao Nishimaki, says that the government of Japan remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring that most vulnerable populations have access to comprehensive healthcare services.

"Through targeted financial support and strategic partnerships, Japan aims to address health inequalities and provide essential services to marginalised groups, ensuring that even the most underserved communities receive the care and resources needed to improve their health outcomes and overall quality of life."

On behalf of the Minister of Gender Equality, Omaheke Governor Pijoo Nganate vocalised that enhancing access to nutrition, strengthening healthcare services, protective services, and community engagements are essential.

"Many in Namibia continue to face berries to these essential services. I'm proud to acknowledge the collaboration and efforts of each and every one of our partners that have made significant strides in addressing these challenges. Programmes aimed at improving maternal and child health and campaigns to educate communities about nutrition have all contributed to positive changes."

The officials concluded their engagements by visiting some of the projects implemented.