14 Jun 2024
We recently handed over essential haemodialysis equipment to the Oshakati Intermediate Hospital. This donation includes three haemodialysis machines, three overbed tables, three dialysis chairs, and one reverse osmosis machine.
During the handover ceremony, Minister of Health and Social Services Dr. Kalumbi Shangula emphasized that this sponsorship complements the ministry’s efforts to enhance healthcare services at the hospital. He noted the importance of public-private partnerships in improving healthcare quality in Namibia.
“The equipment donated includes three haemodialysis machines, three overbed tables, three dialysis chairs, and one reverse osmosis machine. These vital pieces of equipment will not only alleviate the burden on our existing resources but also improve the quality of care provided to our patients,” said Dr. Shangula.
The sponsorship, totalling over N$ 1.7 million, covered the procurement, installation, pre-filtration, and labour for the new haemodialysis machines. Dr. Shangula highlighted that from April 2023 to April 2024, Oshakati Intermediate Hospital managed 133 new haemodialysis cases. During this period, 35 patients recovered, 38 are being managed as outpatients, while 27 chronic cases were referred to private facilities, and three patients relocated to other regions. Unfortunately, 30 patients succumbed to diabetes-related causes.
Stella Ipinge, Debmarine Namibia’s Communications Manager, delivered remarks on behalf of Chief Executive Officer Willy Mertens. Mertens explained that their Social Investment Fund Committee, with the help of the former Acting Superintendent in 2018, identified the urgent need for haemodialysis machines at the hospital. He highlighted the critical role these machines play in treating severe kidney failure by filtering waste, excess fluids, and toxins from the blood.
“As responsible corporate citizens, the private sector can support healthcare by bridging essential equipment and infrastructure gaps through sponsorships when financially feasible. Our ongoing commitment to health, demonstrated through various sponsorships nationwide—from Karasburg to Swakopmund, the Katutura TB clinic, the National Suicide Prevention campaign, Covid-19 equipment, vaccine and vaccination drives, and wheelchair and industrial laundry machine donations—speaks volumes of the high regard we have for this vital service industry,” Mertens added.
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