The government says progress is on track in upgrading health facilities across the country for both public servants and members of the public, particularly those making use of medical aid services.

An example of the planned improvements was showcased at Windhoek Central Hospital during Prime Minister Elijah Ngurare's visit today. 

Dr Elijah Ngurare, accompanied by the Minister of Health and Social Services (MoHSS), the Executive Director and a Member of Parliament, toured parts of Katutura Intermediate Hospital and Windhoek Central Hospital.

The upgraded space at Windhoek Central Hospital is serving as a pilot project for similar improvements at health facilities across the country.

A total of 24 medical doctors and 74 nurses have been recruited for the initiative.

The facility now includes a comfortable waiting area, consultation rooms for doctors, and a referral and booking section, as well as a fully equipped ward with modern beds, a refrigerator, and a television.

The idea is to have money reinvested into the public health sector through the medical aid claims. 

The refurbishment forms part of the ministry's Vision April 2026, aimed at transforming the health sector by addressing key challenges such as poor hospital conditions, staff shortages, and the availability of medicines and equipment.

"Look, this is what we are creating and are striving to create at all of our hospitals. The same level is now what we are striving for. Think of Vision April 2026 as a pilot. Think of it as a pilot so that we roll out what we want to see in a few facilities where we want to see everywhere for everybody. So this is our waiting room," says MoHSS Minister Dr Esperance Luvindao.

The Prime Minister observed a positive impression with the progress made at Katutura Intermediate Hospital and Windhoek Central Hospital since the president's surprise visit last year. 

President Netumbo Nandi Ndaitwah gave orders which included repairing the hot water geysers, which are now restored.

As well as the assessment of senior government officials to use public facilities. 

Dr Ngurare adds, "So what it means is five years from now or so, those that will come after us, they will remember the footsteps that President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has unlocked. And it requires, therefore, all of us as Namibians to rally behind that vision of the president because it is in the national interest. Which means if you are in the village, you should not worry that I will get somebody to assist me. I think that is really the vision that we want to do. So we want to thank the minister and her team, continue to do it, and continue to follow the leadership that the president is providing."

Dr Ngurare assured private hospitals that the government is not taking over all patients, emphasising that the aim is for public and private facilities to complement each other.