Health Ministry Assures Patient Safety Amid Windhoek Central Hospital Power Disruption. The Ministry of Health and Social Services has confirmed that no patients were harmed during a recent power outage at Windhoek Central Hospital. The incident, which occurred on January 24, was caused by a water leak that damaged the electrical distribution box in the hospital’s west wing.
According to Ben Nangombe, the Executive Director of the ministry, the water leakage led to significant power disruptions affecting several floors, including critical care units such as the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU). In response, hospital staff promptly relocated patients to areas with stable power supply to ensure their safety.
Despite the swift action taken by the hospital staff, the relocation led to overcrowding in certain wards. Reports indicate that patients from the affected areas were moved to the east wing’s ninth floor, which also houses other critical care services. This consolidation resulted in cramped conditions and challenges in maintaining adequate ventilation.
The hospital’s maintenance team has been deployed to address the electrical issues and restore normal operations. However, as of the latest updates, there is no confirmed timeline for the full restoration of power. Nangombe assured that efforts are ongoing and that he is receiving regular updates on the situation.
The Ministry has emphasized its commitment to patient safety and has urged the public to remain assured that all necessary measures are being taken to resolve the situation promptly.