Nandi-Ndaitwah looks into concerns over Luvindao’s appointment

President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah is reportedly reviewing the appointment of health minister Esperance Luvindao.

Nandi-Ndaitwah appointed Luvindao as one of her eight nominees to the National Assembly.

Some have questioned why Luvindao was appointed in the role, and The Namibian understands Nandi-Ndaitwah has asked her team to look into the concerns about the appointment.

“She works on evidence. She requested the team to gather evidence,” a source said, adding that the president might only withdraw the appointment “ after evidence proves otherwise”.

Speaking at State House after her appointment on Saturday, Luvindao said that her appointment underscores the importance of involving young, passionate individuals who are capable of getting things done.

“When it comes to healthcare, we are talking about, number one: decentralisation of healthcare services. That means every Namibian, irrespective of where they are in the country, should be able to access standardised health care,” she said in a video published by New Era.

According to her, the goal is that “when someone walks into a state hospital, they should not be able to tell the difference between that and a private facility.”

She also spoke about digital healthcare. “Our systems are overwhelmed, and our doctors, nurses and healthcare officials are overburdened,” she said, adding that one solution is embracing digital healthcare.

“We must ensure that we are not doing the work alone. Digital health and artificial intelligence have advanced to the point where they can truly become partners,” she said.

Her appointment has drawn criticism from some members of the public. The Namibian now understands that Nandi-Ndaitwah is considering removing Luvindao from her post, though the basis for this potential move remains unclear.

Some Namibians have questioned why Luvindao was chosen over seasoned health professionals like former health minister Bernard Haufiku and medical doctor Helena Ndume.

Yesterday, both Haufiku and Ndume stated that they were never approached to serve in the new administration.

Haufiku said in an audio recording this weekend that he was not approached for the position.

“The audio is a response to viral clips saying that I have rejected an offer from the new administration which is not true. I was never approached and there is no bad blood between the new administration and I,” Haufiku told The Namibian yesterday.

Ndume also told The Namibian yesterday that she was never approached for the position of health minister.

“I do not have any further comments on that and whatever questions that are there should be transferred to the appointing power,” she said.