The Minister of Health and Social Services, Minister Kalumbi Shangula, inaugurated the negative pressure mobile isolation facility at the Outapi District Hospital.

The facility, Dr. Shangula said, is a significant advancement in the healthcare infrastructure as it reaffirms the government's commitment to building a strong and resilient healthcare system.

The ward will enable the hospital to respond swiftly and effectively to health crises. 

It will further improve disease prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and patient care, which enhances the overall resilience of the health system.

The United States of America funded the 30-bed mobile negative pressure isolation facility to strengthen the Outapi district hospital's health infrastructure.

"The development of sustainable and reliable health infrastructure is not mere construction but a commitment to provide equitable healthcare access across all regions of Namibia."

Dr. Shangula said in the 2023/2024 financial year, the government has made significant strides aimed at enhancing the nation's healthcare infrastructure by revamping and constructing several health facilities across the country.

"I urge the regional directorate to maintain and use this facility effectively. This requires continued vigilance and care from both our healthcare staff and the community. Staff members who will be deployed at this new mobile isolation facility must receive ongoing training to ensure that the facility and the equipment installed herein are used optimally."

Dr. Shangula added that a healthy population is a productive nation that can drive innovation, foster economic growth, and contribute to the overall well-being of the community.

"Without good health, the workforce diminishes in capacity and efficiency, leading to adverse impacts across all sectors of the economy, from reduced agricultural output to hindered industrial progress."