800 mosquito nets donated to Zambezi health directorate

First National Bank Namibia has donated 800 mosquito nets valued at N$300 000 to the Zambezi region.

The region has been battling a malaria outbreak since January.

It has to date recorded about 17 222 cases and 16 deaths.

Over 701 people have been hospitalised during the outbreak.

Regional governor Lawrence Sampofu, who received the donation at Katima Mulilo on Friday, said there is a slight decline in new infections, as 1 614 cases were reported this week.

He commended FNB for supporting the region’s efforts to fight the malaria outbreak.

“These mosquito nets will be distributed to the most vulnerable communities of our population, especially expecting mothers.

“I call on the beneficiaries to take care of these nets. Please do not use them for fishing,“ he said.

FNB regional branch manager Richie Howaeb said the high malaria rate does not involve numbers only, but represents lives, families, and futures.

He said the situation is dire and therefore, the health directorate requires more support from all sectors of society.

“The malaria outbreak in the Zambezi region this year has taken a toll on the health and overall well-being of many, leading to severe illness and, heartbreakingly, the loss of life.

“At FNB Namibia, health and community development lie close to our hearts. It is not only a key focus area of the FirstRand Namibia Foundation, but also a cause we are committed to supporting, especially when our communities are most in need,” Howaeb said.

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