The Walvis Bay State Hospital received a computed tomography scan machine worth N$4.9 million from China.

Patients at the Walvis Bay State Hospital who needed CT scans were always referred to Windhoek.

But this will no longer be the case, following the donation of a CT scanner by the Zhejiang Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine.

CT scans are used by doctors to get detailed images of internal body structures for accurate diagnosis.

The Executive Director of the Ministry of Health and Social Service, Penda Ithindi, said, "There is no doubt that this injection of impactful investment makes a significant contribution towards stepwise achievement of this broad national objective of our country, as it undoubtedly adds value to the delivery of quality healthcare and saves lives through early diagnosis of ailments and preventative care."

The donation is under the China-Africa Paired Hospital Co-operation Mechanism, proposed in 2020 by the Chinese president.

Through surveys and discussions with the Walvis Bay State Hospital, medical imaging and critical care were identified as key areas of co-operation.

Through training programmes, eight professionals from the harbour town went to China, while six Chinese experts came to Namibia to transfer skills.

China has further shipped three batches of medical equipment worth N$6 million, including the CT scanner.

Vice President of Zhejiang Provincial Hospital, Prof. Lin Shengyou, said, "Moving forward, we will firstly strengthen technology implementation. Provide continuous remote imaging diagnostic support, facilitate the third batch of Namibian personnel training in China, and dispatch Chinese experts. Expand specialised training through online lectures."

With the assistance from China contributing to governments' aim to decentralise services, the Erongo Governor called on staff members to provide quality service.

The Governor of the Erongo Region, Nathalia |Goagoses, said, "Patients or clients are not and should not be a burden; they are the primary reason why we are employed. Let's serve them with commitment, dedication and with the right attitude."

Currently, CT scan machines are available at state hospitals in Windhoek, Oshakati, Onandjokwe and Rundu.