An increase in cancer cases has placed tremendous pressure on the Oncology Ward at the Windhoek Central Hospital.

In response to this need, the Windhoek West Constituency Office, under the leadership of Councillor Emma Muteka, contributed items to improve the ward's efficiency, support cancer patients, and boost the spirits of both patients and staff members.

The donation includes two sewing machines, 109 pillowcases and 109 curtains for treatment room divisions, 109 flat sheets, two wheelchairs, and blankets to make meaningful steps in addressing the ward's ongoing needs.

Muteka emphasised the importance of investing in the community.

"The message here is to improvise and to use what we have. Let us move into the line of moving to use what we have. What we have are our local people who can tailor these things. What we have is our minds. Whatever it is that we can use is at this point in time. Let us improvise."

The inclusion of sewing machines in the donation was particularly noteworthy, as Councillor Muteka explained the dual purpose behind the gesture. 

The machines will be used to create job opportunities, enabling them to tailor-make items for use in the ward.

The Oncology Ward currently serves between 40 and 100 patients daily, including children in its specialised paediatric ward. 

The chairperson of stakeholder relations in the Ministry of Health and Social Services, Mercia Tjavara, expressed profound gratitude on behalf of the hospital.

"Your donation today is more than just a gift; it is a lifeline for many who rely on our services as the largest referral hospital. The contribution you have made today will enable the Windhoek Central Hospital to enhance its capacity to provide much-needed services, the oncology services. You've not only partnered with the community of Windhoek West constituency; you have partnered with the rest of Namibia because we are catering as a national referral hospital for the entire country."

More work, however, needs to be done to enhance the ward's facilities fully and urged continued collaboration between government entities, the private sector, and the community to support cancer care initiatives.