Japan boost Namibia’s health system
Namibia has launched a Japanese Supplementary Budget Project aimed at strengthening the national health system, improving emergency preparedness and expanding access to essential services in vulnerable communities.
Speaking at the launch on behalf of Health Minister Esperance Luvindao, executive director Penda Ithindi expressed appreciation to the Government and people of Japan for their continued support, describing the partnership as a demonstration of international solidarity and a shared commitment to improving health outcomes, particularly for women, children and remote communities.
The initiative, valued at US$1.126 million (about N$18.4 million), will be implemented in partnership with the World Health Organisation, Namibia and UNICEF Namibia. It comprises three components focused on strengthening integrated primary healthcare, enhancing public health emergency preparedness and response, and improving access to water, sanitation and hygiene services.
The programme includes scaling up health security and emergency response systems in four priority regions, strengthening cancer diagnosis and treatment through the procurement of seven ultrasound machines, and building community capacity to respond to public health risks.
According to Luvindao, the interventions were prioritised in response to recurring health challenges linked to climate change, cross-border disease transmission, water scarcity and the growing burden of non-communicable diseases such as cancer. Once implemented, the programme is expected to benefit more than 118 000 people across eight hospitals, improve access to safe water and sanitation for at least 14,600 people, and provide insecticide-treated bed nets to high-risk communities.
She said the initiative represents more than the provision of equipment, describing it as a long-term investment in strengthening health systems, promoting equity and building resilience. Capacity development for healthcare workers will also form a key part of the programme to ensure sustainability.
The project will focus on the Khomas, Omusati and Zambezi regions, where communities are expected to benefit from improved infrastructure and services. Implementation teams have been instructed to ensure timely delivery, transparency and financial accountability, with resources directed towards essential services.
Luvindao also thanked Japanese Ambassador Asazuma and the Government of Japan for the swift approval of funding, noting that it will support Namibia’s efforts to strengthen its healthcare system.
The project was officially launched at a ceremony on Thursday, marking what officials described as another step forward in advancing healthcare through international cooperation.
