The challenges of a lack of aging ambulances in the Otjozondjupa Region are finally receiving attention.

The region only has two functioning ambulances out of a fleet of six to transport patients to and from the district hospitals of Okahandja, Otjiwarongo, and Grootfontein.

The Minister of Health and Social Services, Dr. Kalumbi Shangula, acknowledged the shortage of ambulances and gave assurance that the ministry would speed up the process to procure one for Okakarara.

"But we have now taken a new approach. In actual fact, ambulances are considered medical equipment—essential medical equipment—and this is how we are approaching them now. When we are going to purchase the ambulances, I have taken note that Okakarara is one of the places that really need an ambulance."

Dr. Shangula explained that the Okakarara Hospital will be the first to get a new ambulance as it covers vast areas such as Okamatapati, Otjozondu, Hochfeld, Okondjatu, and Uitkoms.

Mortuary facilities will also receive attention.

Dr. Shangula says the ministry will in the future look into acquiring quality mortuary fridges, as continuous maintenance of the current units is costly.