NAMIBIA BREAST MILK BANK (NBMB) OFFICIALLY INAUGURATED

Windhoek Aug 06-The Namibia Breast Milk Bank (NBMB) was officially inaugurated on Monday, 05 August 2019 by the Executive Director of the Ministry of Health & Social Services (MoHSS). Operational since April 2018, the NBMB has fed well over 100 premature babies to date.

Officiating the opening of the NBMB, the Executive Director of the MoHSS, Ben Nangombe, stressed on the importance of breastfeeding and what impact this has on the health and well-being of children. Nangombe: “Babies that are breastfed have a higher chance of a healthier life. The NBMB has the potential to contribute significantly to the overall well-being of our babies, who are our future leaders.” Nangombe expressed his gratitude towards the Ohlthaver & List (O&L) Group and ErongoMED for empowering the NBMB, and called on Namibia and potential breast milk donors to support the bank and contribute to the successful implantation of its vision for the country.

In his address at the inauguration event, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the O&L Group, Wessie van der Westhuizen applauded the NBMB for the passion behind this purposeful initiative. Van der Westhuizen: “O&L has always been passionate about children and the role the Breast Milk Bank plays in society speaks directly to the O&L purpose, “Creating a future, Enhancing life”. This facility will provide a better start in life for babies in need and will give them a better opportunity to live a full and healthy life. We became involved with the breast milk bank in mid-2018, covering administrative costs such as rent, laboratory expenses and other expenses in the collection, storing, pasteurization and dissemination of milk.  We have also established a website www.nbmb.com.na  and encourage corporates and individuals to familiarize themselves with the NBMB and get involved where they can. O&L will continue in its support of the NBMB for the next financial year.”