World Hand Hygiene Day was commemorated under the theme "It Might Be Gloves. It's Always Hand Hygiene" by the Health Ministry of Health and Social Services and other stakeholders.
The day is aimed at promoting cleanliness and fighting the spread of bacteria; it also reminds society that hand hygiene is a simple yet powerful tool in preventing healthcare-associated infections.
With the country battling to curb waterborne diseases such as Hepatitis E and Cholera, the Ministry of Health and Social Services celebrated World Hand Hygiene Day.
The Minister of Health and Social Services, Dr. Esperance Luvindao, emphasised that hand hygiene is crucial not only for clinical settings but also in daily life and in the community at large.
She stated that World Hand Hygiene Day is not a celebration, but it is a call for action to provide water for those who can't afford or have access to clean water.
"Namibia has made notable progress with regards to hand hygiene. Our national average hand hygiene compliance currently stands at 74%; thus, we are partially compliant. However, we must not become complacent. The Ministry of Health and Social Services remains committed to improving the performance and institutionalising hand hygiene as a cornerstone of health service delivery."
Dr. Luvindao further highlighted that gloves should not replace proper hand hygiene practices, further acknowledging that stakeholder partnerships are very important in making sure continued collaborations from partners stay strong to drive the mission of hand hygiene.
Ambassador of Japan, Shinichi Asazuma, shared similar sentiments that only through collaborations can governments curb health challenges faced in the countries.
"The government of Japan, in partnership with WHO Namibia and MoHSS, has consistently supported Namibia's health, contributing over US$2 million from 2019 to 2024. To address issues such as the combating of the Hepatitis E outbreak, sustain essential health services during COVID-19, improve nutrition and health for women and children, strengthen the protection of women and children against violence, and increase access to quality healthcare services."
Asazuma further highlighted that it will remain committed to advancing quality and safe healthcare services to vulnerable Namibians and underserved populations.