Namibia's Health and Social Services Minister, Dr Kalumbi Shangula, says his ministry means to take healthcare services closer to rural communities through tailored resources.

In the Ohangwena Region, Dr Kalumbi Shangula opened a comprehensive community-based health-service facility near the Oshikango border.

For too long, people at the Oshikango border crossing received healthcare treatment under trees.

However, this is now something of the past, following the opening of this comprehensive community-based health-service facility.

This CCBHS model aims to improve healthcare service delivery for patients with HIV, TB, and malaria.

For many years, Namibia has provided and continues to provide healthcare services and treatment to cross-border patients living along the Angola–Namibia border.

"For example, during the 2nd quarter of 2022–2023, a total of 913 cross-border patients received healthcare services at border points in the Ohangwena region. However, these cross-border patients face different challenges in accessing services, as witnessed during the COVID-19 lockdown when borders were closed. This negatively impacted service delivery for cross-border patients," Dr Shangula said.

The center was constructed with support from the Global Fund and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention in Namibia.

The facilities were erected at Oshikango, Olupale, Onghala, and Onhunda border points in the Ohangwena region.

"We achieve dependable healthcare when we put in place healthcare services that make the best use of available resources and when services are implemented for as long as they are required. This site is a shining example of a reliable healthcare service. Together we identify a space, together we put up this structure, and healthcare providers regularly serve community members here," added Dr Brian Baker, Namibia Country Director for the Center for Disease Control.