New maternity hospital opens in Windhoek

Health and social services minister Kalumbi Shangula inaugurated the state Apgar Maternity hospital in Windhoek on Thursday.

According to Shangula, the private facility is equipped with a cutting-edge neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), which serves as a formidable ally in the government’s mission to reduce maternal and neonatal mortality rates.

This aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), he said.

“This hospital, with its cutting-edge NICU, serves as a formidable ally in our mission to improve maternal and child health outcomes. The NICU symbolises a commitment, not just to care for but to save the lives of our newborns, providing them with the best possible start in life,” he said.

Namibia has made commendable strides in reducing maternal mortality over the years, yet the road ahead remains challenging, he added.

While the country’s maternal mortality ratio has improved to around 215 per 100 000 live births, more work must be done to meet global targets set by the SDGs, Shangula said.

“Although Namibia is performing better than the sub-Saharan African average, we still have a considerable journey ahead to meet our international obligations and benchmarks.”

The minister emphasised the importance of public-private partnerships in achieving these goals. He applauded the hospital’s leadership for their willingness to collaborate with the Ministry of Health and Social Services, ensuring that care is accessible to all mothers and children, regardless of socio-economic status.

“By working together with the government, private sector and civil society, we can ensure that no mother or child is left behind.

“The Apgar Maternity Hospital is not just a building, it is a sanctuary for expectant mothers and their babies. It symbolises a collective effort to build a healthcare system that Namibia can be proud of. With resolute determination and a cooperative spirit, we can reduce maternal and child mortality, and achieve a healthier, more prosperous future for all,” Shangula said.

The hospital’s co-director, registered nurse Nancy Shiweda, said services will be affordable for mothers without medical aid.

“And for those who have medical aid, our rates are regulated by the Namibia Medical Aid Fund,” she said.

According to the hospital’s director, general practitioner Emmanuel Tom, the hospital will deliver high-quality healthcare to mothers and children in Namibia.

“I have a desire for women’s health and that is how we came about this hospital. We are going to be doing normal deliveries and caesarean sections, we are also doing any women’s operations,” Tom said.