01 Jul 2025

Debmarine Namibia’s commitment to women’s health is a holistic approach to employee wellbeing. The company recognises that a thriving workforce begins with good health. Stephanie Louw, Employee Wellness Manager for Debmarine Namibia, emphasises this commitment, stating, “Our commitment to employee wellbeing extends beyond routine check-ups—we actively invest in initiatives that empower our female employees to take charge of their health. Through targeted screenings, annual medicals, and ongoing education, we ensure that preventative healthcare remains a priority.”

Every October, in alignment with Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, Debmarine Namibia offers Pap Smear and Breast Examination screenings to all female employees. The primary objective is early detection, identifying abnormal cervical cells before they become cancerous and enabling timely medical intervention. To make these screenings accessible, the company conducts them onsite at its offices over one or two days, depending on demand. The trusted healthcare partner, Paramount Healthcare Centre, facilitates the examinations, with a nurse leading the process. Her established rapport with female staff fosters a sense of comfort and trust, making the experience less daunting.

Participation is driven through internal communication platforms and social media, where well-designed invitations and educational materials highlight the importance of screening. By creating awareness and encouraging proactive health management, employees are empowered to prioritise their wellbeing. Preventative healthcare is at the core of Annual Medicals, ensuring early identification of potential health risks.

These medical assessments are tailored based on individual and organisational risk factors, including medical history, lifestyle, and environmental exposure such as noise, dust, and heights. Age-related health considerations are also factored in, with specialised tests including audiometry for hearing, health screening for blood pressure, BMI, body fat analysis, drug and alcohol testing, and urine analysis. Additional tests include chest X-ray, exercise stress test, physical fitness exercise, pulmonary function test for lung health, stress electro-cardiogram, and vision testing.

Stephanie underscores the significance of these initiatives, stating, “By prioritising proactive health management, we aim to preserve institutional knowledge and skills, ensuring that our employees remain healthy, engaged, and productive.”

Health education is a fundamental pillar of Debmarine Namibia’s wellness strategy. Monthly health education sessions align with the World Health Organisation’s global health calendar, covering topics relevant to employee wellbeing, seasonal health concerns, and emerging health trends. These sessions are delivered through presentations by trained Peer Educators across teams and vessels. To reinforce learning, educational pamphlets are distributed, and collaborations with external stakeholders such as the Ministry of Health and Social Services are established.

For larger health awareness days such as World Suicide Prevention Day, a more immersive approach is taken. Webinars are hosted, guest speakers invited for motivational talks, and awareness materials shared widely within the company. While employee feedback is often informal due to the sensitivity of health topics, appreciation has been consistently expressed for the relatable and accessible way information is delivered.

 

Stephanie reaffirmed the company’s unwavering commitment to women’s health, stating, “Women’s health is not just a priority but a commitment. Through early detection screenings, comprehensive medical assessments, and ongoing education, we foster a workplace culture where employees feel supported in their health journey.”

By investing in preventative healthcare, Debmarine Namibia empowers its workforce to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives because when employees thrive, so does the company.