
The Minister of Health and Social Services, Esperance Luvindao, says misinformation about vaccines undermines public trust.
Speaking at the Government Information Center, Dr. Luvindao emphasised the urgent need to strengthen health literacy, scale up community health worker programs, and combat the spread of misinformation.
Addressing the rise of health-related misinformation, minister Luvindao drew attention to how social media and unverified sources have misled the public on topics such as vaccination and diseases.
The minister cited the ongoing debate around the HPV vaccine, which helps prevent cervical cancer, a leading cause of death among women in Namibia.
Despite scientific consensus on its effectiveness, uptake remains low due to misinformation.
Dr. Luvindao further clarified that no vaccine or immunisation is mandatory in Namibia.
Luvindao further reiterated the government's commitment to decentralise healthcare, announcing a target to expand the country's community health workforce to 10,000.
This expanded team will be educating communities on essential health principles and ensuring that all Namibians can access the care they need.
She also emphasised the importance of establishing health posts, a policy initially championed by the former Minister of Health, Dr. Kalumbi Shangula.
The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening the country's health system and improving outcomes for all citizens.