45 children under the age of five died from malnutrition-related conditions in the Omaheke Region this year.

The Health Director, Jeremia Shikulo, said the region has recorded 132 cases of malnutrition since January.

In a telephone interview with the nbc News team, Shikulo revealed that malnutrition has become a concern in the region owing to a lack of proper diet.

Shikulo added that despite the increase in malnutrition cases, the region's team is also working tirelessly to remedy the situation with soup kitchens and community gardens.

President Hage Geingob has conferred a state funeral on the former Health Director of the Oshana Region, Naftali Hamata. 

The Secretary to the Cabinet, Dr. George Simataa, confirmed this to nbc News.

Dr. Hamata died last week, aged 78.

The renowned medical doctor served in various portfolios after independence, including those of special advisor, medical superintendent, and regional health director, to name but a few.

During the liberation struggle, he treated wounded PLAN fighters and provided health care at Onamishu village in the Ohangwena region.