The Ministry of Health and Social Services has officially declared the cholera outbreak in the Grootfontein and Opuwo health districts over after more than 28 days without any confirmed cases.
Health minister Esperance Luvindao made the announcement in a public notice issued last Thursday, saying the outbreak had been contained in line with international public health standards.
“With more than 28 days of zero confirmed cholera cases reported to date (the required monitoring period), and in accordance with epidemiological best practice, the ministry hereby informs the public that we have contained the cholera outbreak in both districts.
“Therefore, as per the International Health Regulations (2005), I hereby declare the end of the cholera outbreak in Namibia,” Luvindao said.
The ministry declared the outbreak on 27 November 2025 following the confirmation of a cholera case in the Grootfontein health district on 19 November 2025. Two additional confirmed cases were later reported in the Opuwo health district on 26 January.
As of 22 April, a total of 282 suspected cholera cases had been reported, of which 82 were laboratory confirmed. Grootfontein recorded 52 confirmed cases and Opuwo 30. One person died during the outbreak at Opuwo.
According to the ministry, emergency response systems were activated at national, regional and district levels to contain the outbreak through a coordinated multi-sectoral response.
Luvindao said the successful containment of the outbreak was made possible through collaboration between the government and development partners.
“Successfully containing the cholera outbreak was the result of a coordinated partnership between the government of Namibia and key development partners, including the World Health Organisation, the United States Centres for Disease Control, the United Nations Children’s Fund and the Robert Koch Institute,” she said.
“Through a joint commitment of technical expertise, financial resources, and in-kind support, we ensured a swift and effective response to the outbreak.”
The minister also thanked government institutions and regional authorities for supporting the response.
“We extend our sincere gratitude to the various government sectors whose active participation was vital in containing the cholera outbreak,” Luvindao said, specifically recognising the Office of the Prime Minister, several ministries, regional councils and local authorities for their contributions.
Although the outbreak has ended, Luvindao cautioned that the threat of cholera remains.
“While the current outbreak has been contained, the risk of resurgence remains a constant threat that requires unwavering vigilance from everyone, both within Namibia and beyond.
“To prevent the return of cholera and other waterborne diseases, it is essential to maintain high standards of hygiene.”
She urged the public to use safe drinking water, ensure proper sanitation, wash hands thoroughly with soap and clean running water, and seek medical attention immediately at the first sign of illness.
“Early intervention not only saves lives but also prevents the further spread of disease within our neighbourhoods,” Luvindao said.
