By Kaleb Nghishidivali
WALVIS BAY, August 05- Namibia is witnessing a significant demographic shift, with over 5% of its population now exceeding the age of 60, as revealed by Dr. Ester Muinjangue, Deputy Minister of Health and Social Services. This revelation came to light during the inauguration ceremony of the Narraville Elderly Home, a pioneering establishment designed to cater to the needs and well-being of senior citizens.
Dr. Muinjangue underscored a remarkable demographic transition underway in Africa, with the number of individuals aged 60 and above projected to surge from 65 million in 2018 to a staggering 220 million by the year 2050. She cited estimates from the World Health Organization (WHO), indicating that 5.8% of Namibia’s populace falls within this age bracket. This statistic underscores the nation’s escalating demand for facilities catering to the elderly.
The event garnered the presence of esteemed dignitaries, including Hon. Derek Klazen, Minister of Fisheries and Marine Resources, along with representatives from regional and local government bodies.
Highlighting the crucial importance of elderly care, Dr. Muinjangue pointed out that the increasing necessity for such facilities is a result of shifts in traditional family structures and social support networks. She emphasized, “It is our responsibility to extend these essential amenities to the elderly.”
The Narraville Elderly Home, envisioned to comprise 58 units, a fully equipped hall with a kitchen, and a medical center, is poised to be a contemporary facility meticulously crafted for Walvis Bay’s community. Dr. Muinjangue expressed her unwavering belief that the establishment would offer essential refuge and foster a societal metamorphosis for the elderly residents. She articulated, “Our goal is to provide top-tier care, creating a haven that promotes well-being and, above all, empowers older individuals to embrace active aging with dignity.”
Moreover, Dr. Muinjangue revealed that the Ministry of Health and Social Services is actively formulating a comprehensive National Policy on the Rights, Protection, and Care of Older Persons in Namibia. This groundbreaking policy is designed to safeguard not only the health of senior citizens but also their intergenerational roles, wisdom, and contributions across various socio-economic, cultural, and religious spheres within the community.
Drawing inspiration from Betty Friedan, the deputy minister urged attendees to view aging as a phase brimming with potential and resilience, rather than a period of decline. “Aging is not ‘lost youth’ but a new stage of opportunity and strength,” she echoed, encouraging all to embrace this life stage with a perspective rooted in empowerment and enrichment.- Namibia Daily News
