Keynote address by Minister of Health and Social Services Esperance Luvindao at Ultrasound Handover Ceremony

Handover of portable ultrasound machines by Capricorn Foundation. Windhoek, 12 February 2026

___________________________________________________________

Good morning.

We gather not just to witness a transaction of equipment, but to celebrate a transformative moment in the history of Namibian public healthcare. Today, we bridge the gap between resource constraints and technological innovation. Today, we take a definitive step towards a future where quality healthcare is not a privilege determined by geography or income, but a fundamental right accessible to every Namibian citizen.

On behalf of the Ministry of Health and Social Services, and indeed on behalf of the government of the Republic of Namibia, I extend our deepest and most sincere appreciation to the Capricorn Foundation. Your presence here, and your unwavering commitment to the wellbeing of our people, speaks volumes. It tells a story of corporate responsibility that goes beyond ticking boxes; it is a story of heart, vision and a genuine desire to uplift the nation.

We are here to formally accept the generous donation of two state-of-the-art portable sonar machines, valued at N$90 000 each. But let us be clear: this donation is not merely about wires, probes and screens. It is not just about the provision of hardware. This is a milestone in our collective journey to rewrite the narrative of maternal and child health outcomes in Namibia.

Consider the context of where we stand. The Maxuilili Clinic serves a vibrant yet vulnerable population of over 46 000 residents in the Tobias Hainyeko constituency. Until yesterday, a pregnant mother needing a simple obstetric ultrasound had to be referred to a hospital. This often meant long travel times, financial strain and added congestion at our referral centres.

With these machines, we are bringing the hospital to the community. These sonar machines will directly contribute to saving lives. They mean that a complication in pregnancy can be detected here and now, not hours later or kilometres away. They mean that a diagnosis can be made swiftly, allowing for immediate intervention. By enhancing diagnostic capacity at the primary care level, we are ensuring healthier futures for our families and our communities.

I must take a moment to recognise the pioneering spirit behind this initiative. I wish to acknowledge the contribution of Dr Edward Fynn, a distinguished radiologist and educator. It was his foresight that introduced this specific technology to us. His expertise, combined with the Capricorn Foundation’s generosity, demonstrates the immense power of collaboration. When medical expertise meets corporate philanthropy, we unlock the potential to advance healthcare for lower socio-economic groups in ways we previously only dreamed of.

The technology we accept today is designed for the reality of our environment. These sonar probes are robust, effective and built for durability. Their portability makes them ideal for a high-volume facility like Maxuilili, where space and infrastructure can be limited. Most impressively, their connectivity sets a new standard. These machines possess recording and sharing capabilities that will allow our general practitioners here at the clinic to consult with specialists in real time.

Imagine the power of that interaction: a doctor at Maxuilili Clinic can scan a patient, share the data instantly with a specialist at Katutura Intermediate or Windhoek Central hospitals, and receive immediate guidance. This ensures accuracy, efficiency and, most importantly, dignity for the patient.

However, we know that acquiring technology is only half the battle. Sustainability is the key to true impact. I want to assure the Capricorn Foundation and the public that the ministry is fully committed to the stewardship of this gift. We will establish a comprehensive service plan to safeguard the long-term functionality of these machines. We are not just installing machines; we are installing a system of accountability to ensure that this donation serves our people for years to come.

To the staff of Maxuilili Clinic: these tools are now in your hands. You are the guardians of this technology. I urge you to use them with the diligence and care that our patients deserve. Let these machines be instruments of compassion. Let them be the tools with which you deliver excellence every single day.

To the community of Tobias Hainyeko: this is for you. This is a testament to the fact that you matter. Your health matters. We are working tirelessly to ensure that the services you receive are dignified, modern and effective.

In conclusion, let this day serve as a reminder of what we can achieve when we align our goals. This partnership is a testament to the strength found in unity, when institutions and communities work together for the greater good. It reflects the Capricorn Foundation’s dedication to advancing healthcare and improving lives, a mission that resonates deeply with our own mandate.

On behalf of the Ministry of Health and Social Services, I extend our deepest and most profound gratitude to the Capricorn Foundation for this valued partnership. You have set a benchmark for corporate citizenship.

Thank you for your generosity. Thank you for your partnership. And thank you for believing in the health of our nation.

In an age of information overload, Sunrise is The Namibian’s morning briefing, delivered at 6h00 from Monday to Friday. It offers a curated rundown of the most important stories from the past 24 hours – occasionally with a light, witty touch. It’s an essential way to stay informed. Subscribe and join our newsletter community.