Minister of Health Conducts Surprise Visits to Mariental and Keetmanshoop Hospitals to Assess Services

Minister of Health Conducts Surprise Visits to Mariental and Keetmanshoop Hospitals to Assess Services. The Minister of Health and Social Services, Hon. Dr Esperance Luvindao, conducted impromptu visits to Mariental District Hospital in the Hardap region and Keetmanshoop District Hospital in the ǁKaras region from 31 July to 2 August 2025. Accompanied by Deputy Executive Director Ms. Taimi Amaambo and technical staff, the visits aimed to gain first-hand insights into service delivery and identify areas requiring immediate attention.

During her visits, the Minister observed increased workloads across staff levels due to understaffing, reports of long waiting times, and infrastructure maintenance challenges. She toured various wards and departments, engaging directly with hospital personnel to understand the issues affecting day-to-day operations. While she noted the cleanliness of the facilities positively, she highlighted the urgent need to address shortages of essential medical equipment and pharmaceuticals.

At Keetmanshoop District Hospital, Dr Luvindao acknowledged ongoing renovation efforts, particularly the recently completed renal dialysis department, which is expected to be inaugurated soon. “This will be a huge relief to our patients who need these services,” remarked a hospital staff member. The Minister also commended the ICU team at Keetmanshoop and the nursing staff at both hospitals for their dedication and professionalism.

Dr Luvindao emphasised the Ministry’s commitment to strengthening district hospitals to provide specialised services locally, thereby reducing the need to refer patients to Windhoek. Several priority action points were identified during the visits, with hospital management tasked to implement them promptly to improve service delivery and infrastructure maintenance.

The Minister concluded by urging all hospital staff to maintain high standards of professionalism, compassion, and civic responsibility, reaffirming the Ministry’s pledge to ensure that every district hospital is equipped to meet the healthcare needs of Namibians.