A local business owner from the Kavango regions has fumigated the Katjinakatji Combined School's hostel kitchen in the Kavango West Region to eliminate a cockroach infestation.

In January, 113 learners from the school's hostel sought medical attention after experiencing symptoms of suspected food poisoning.

Joseph Katjiri, owner of Joseph Pest Control, said he felt compelled to sterilise the hostel kitchen, as cockroaches are also likely to cause food poisoning. His company plans to fumigate various schools in both Kavango East and West, facing similar problems, for free.

"What normally attracts cockroaches is leftover food left in the open, as well as a dirty environment," Katjiri said.

By the time learners return from school holidays, he added, they will find a pest-free environment.

Some school staff confirmed to NBC News that while the hostel's kitchen has been fumigated, cockroaches persist in the dorms. They noted that although boarders are prohibited from eating there, the rules are not always followed, contributing to the infestation.

For now, Katjiri said his company is focusing on hostel kitchens but is willing to expand services once an agreement is reached with the Ministry of Education.