Zambezi region gets first ICU

Health and social services minister Esperance Luvindao on Thursday inaugurated a new intensive care unit (ICU) at Katima Mulilo District Hospital, marking a major step towards improving access to specialised medical care in the Zambezi region.

Speaking during the inauguration, Luvindao said the unit represents a turning point for many families who have endured years of travelling long distances to access critical health services.

“For years, families and patients have travelled over 500 kilometres to Rundu or more than 1 000 kilometres to Windhoek in search of specialised care. These journeys placed immense financial and emotional burdens on families and tragically, sometimes compromised the very survival of those in need,” she said.

She added that the opening of the ICU signals the beginning of a new chapter in regional healthcare delivery.

“This ICU marks the beginning of a new chapter, where advanced medical care is accessible right here in the Zambezi region. It speaks volumes about our dedication to achieving universal health coverage, ensuring that every citizen has access to quality health services without suffering financial hardship.”

The facility is expected to improve patient outcomes by enabling timely treatment for those requiring intensive monitoring and care. It also aims to strengthen the region’s health infrastructure, reduce patient referrals to distant hospitals and support healthcare workers with modern equipment and resources to deliver specialised services closer to communities.

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