About 10% of babies born in Namibia are premature.
Executive director of health and social services Ben Nangombe yesterday spoke on behalf of deputy health minister Esther Muinjangue at a World Prematurity Day event at Windhoek Central Hospital.
“This statistic highlights the critical need for awareness and action. Common causes of prematurity include infection.
This year’s event is commemorated under the theme ‘Small Actions, Big Impact: Immediate Skin-to-Skin Care for Every Baby, Everywhere’.
Nangombe said the theme resonates deeply with the ministry’s mission to provide equitable, accessible and quality healthcare for all.
“Premature birth is one of the most challenging and emotional experiences a family can encounter,”.
Nangombe said the day was celebrated for the 11th year in Namibia on 17 November.
“We must recognise the unwavering strength and resilience of mothers who navigate this difficult journey.”
He said their ability to transform fear into hope and diversity into resilience is nothing short of inspiring.
“Your journey is not only a tribute to maternal strength, but also a beacon of hope for countless others,” Nangombe added.
Speaking at the event, World Health Organisation (WHO) representative to Namibia Richard Banda said over 13 million babies are born prematurely worldwide each year.
“These little but mighty fighters face immense challenges in adapting to a world they were not yet fully prepared for. It is our collective responsibility to ensure an enabling environment that accommodates their unique needs,” he said.
Banda further highlighted the broader implications of preterm births, which extend beyond healthcare.
“Preterm births impose significant financial and emotional burdens on families, while also influencing national development priorities.
“Prematurity directly impacts the country’s achievement of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3.2, which aspires to end preventable deaths of newborns and children under five years by 2030,” he said.
KANGAROO CARE
The WHO said this year’s theme underscores the importance of Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC), a low-cost, high-impact intervention for preterm and low birthweight babies.
“Skin-to-skin care, a cornerstone of the KMC approach, is a proven, cost-effective, evidence-based practice,” Banda said.
He explained that in 2023, WHO updated its guidelines on implementing and scaling up KMC, stressing the importance of prolonged skin-to-skin contact ideally for eight to 24 hours daily, beginning immediately after birth.
Banda said the benefits of KMC include reducing the risk of hypothermia and sepsis, enhancing cognitive and motor development, improving parental mental health and fostering strong parent-infant bonding.
He said KMC also promotes breastfeeding and providing vital nutritional benefits to vulnerable infants.
Speaking at the event, nurse Evelyn Sinyazi said: “Prem day is not just about reflecting on the progress we’ve made, but about celebrating who we are as nurses – our commitment to care, compassion and the relentless pursuit of excellence in healthcare.”
She highlighted the unique role of nurses as caregivers and advocates, reminding her colleagues of the profound impact they have on patients’ lives.
“Every day we dedicate ourselves to the well-being of our patients, often going above and beyond to ensure they receive the best possible care.
“Whether it’s offering a comforting word or ensuring their safety and comfort, our role is invaluable,” she said.
Sinyazi called for a renewed focus on the core values of the profession.
“Compassion and empathy are at the heart of what we do. As nurses, we must always remember the values that guide us: patience, integrity, respect and dignity,” she said.
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