New Onandjokwe maternity unit to accommodate over 100 patients

Minister of health and social services Esperance Luvindao on Friday officially opened Namibia’s largest maternity unit at Onandjokwe Intermediate Hospital at Oniipa in the Oshikoto region.

The maternity unit, with a 120-bed capacity, features 12 private rooms, ensuring privacy for expectant and new mothers.

The ward is equipped to handle complex cases requiring advanced care and includes two operating theatres for emergency obstetric services.

Luvindao said despite prolonged delays, public scrutiny, and inflationary pressures, the total construction cost was kept at N$57 million, well within the ministry’s budget.

The minister described the new facility as the largest maternity ward in the country, adding that the bed count was determined based on current and projected population dynamics in the region.

“The maternity ward embodies the core commitments of the government, which include universal access to timely and respectful care, evidence-based quality services, and comprehensive support under one roof – encompassing antenatal care, labour, delivery, high-care services, breastfeeding support, and mental health considerations – as well as sustainability through energy-efficient systems, reliable water supply, and backup power,” she said.

Oshikoto governor Sacky Kathindi hailed the inauguration as a critical milestone.

“This facility stands as living testimony that progress is possible and indeed happening here at Oshikoto,” he said.

Kathundi acknowledged ongoing challenges such as maternal and neonatal mortality, but said the ward aligns with regional health plans, national priorities, and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 3 on health and SDG 5 on gender equality.

Secilia Simeon from Ondjaba yOnghalu in the Okankolo constituency, who gave birth via C-section in February, shared her positive experience.

“After my delivery, I was in a very bad condition; I could not even walk.

“But thanks to the medical team, I can now walk and am very thankful. The nurses here are very polite and helpful.

“This ward is really awesome as it has private toilets and even aircons. I especially like that no visitors are allowed into the rooms unless there is an emergency,” she said.

Simeon said the nurses are always ready to assist them when in need of assistance.

The new ward is expected to significantly reduce pressure on existing facilities and improve maternal and child health outcomes across the region.

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