By: Kaleb Nghishidivali

WINDHOEK, July 31 – Ben Nangombe, the executive director of the Ministry of Health and Social Services, highlighted the alarming risk faced by miners in Namibia of contracting tuberculosis (TB) during a workshop in Windhoek.

In partnership with the East, Central and Southern Africa Health Community (ECSA-HC), the ministry is focused on developing and implementing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to enhance Mine Health and Safety in the Mining Sector. The workshop aims to raise awareness and promote understanding of these SOPs, encouraging relevant organizations to adopt them nationwide.

According to Nangombe, TB incidence among miners is estimated to be up to ten times higher than in the general population. This is especially concerning given Namibia’s already high TB burden, particularly among individuals living with HIV, malnourished individuals, and those with habits like excessive alcohol intake, smoking, and Diabetes Mellitus.

“The key objectives of this workshop are to educate and train key population organizations on the generic four National Mine Health and Safety SOPs, develop advocacy plans for the Mine Health and Safety SOPs across mining organizations, and communicate the key strategies for the four MHS SOPs in mining organizations,” Nangombe explained.

To combat the high TB incidence in the mining sector, the ministry has taken significant measures. It established a subdivision for Occupational Health and works closely with the Ministry of Labour, Industrial Relations and Employment Creation (MLIREC), and the Ministry of Mines and Energy to strengthen Namibia’s approach to tackling occupational diseases like TB in the mining sector.

The ministry has also set up a Multi-Stakeholder Committee for TB in the Mining Sector and actively participates in the Project on TB in the Mining Sector (TIMS III project). Launched on February 25, 2022, by the ECSA-HC, this project is another significant step towards addressing this pressing health issue.

Moreover, the ministry is in the process of developing a National Strategic Plan that addresses TB-related issues in the mining sector, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to tackling this problem. Through these initiatives, the ministry aims to significantly reduce TB incidence among mineworkers and ensure a safer working environment.- Namibia Daily News

By Kaleb Nghishidivali

ONGWEDIVA, July 31 – Approximately 100 learners from Mweshipandeka Secondary School in the Oshana Region have received treatment for flu-like symptoms since last Saturday, July 29. The Education Director, Hileni Amukana, confirmed this development in this publication.

These students sought medical attention at various health centres across the region, with most presenting similar symptoms. In light of the ongoing global health crisis, the students were also tested for Covid-19. Thankfully, all test results returned negative, alleviating concerns of a potential outbreak.

Amukana clarified that all affected learners were sent back to the hostel and no hospitalizations were necessary, dismissing concerns about severe illness among the affected students. She emphasized that the situation, while unusual, does not warrant alarm.

To address the situation proactively and avoid panic, school authorities are awaiting further directives from the Ministry of Education. Amukana assured the public that there is no need for panic, as the situation is under control, and the school is prepared to take appropriate measures as per the Ministry’s guidance.

Despite the significant number of learners affected, the overall health impact appears to be mild, with no reported hospitalizations. The school will continue to monitor the students’ health and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.

The cause of the mass flu-like symptoms remains unknown, and further investigations are anticipated.

Parents and guardians are urged to remain calm and cooperate with the school’s health measures. They are also advised to closely monitor their children’s health and seek immediate medical attention if symptoms persist or worsen.- Namibia Daily News

By Staff Reporter

WINDHOEK, July 31 — The World Food Programme (WFP) is actively engaged in enhancing food security and nutrition in Namibia through a range of impactful initiatives. In June 2023, WFP provided vital assistance to more than 19,000 individuals, deploying its Home-Grown School Feeding Programme, Integrated Community-based Food Systems Projects, and Cash Based Transfers – Value Vouchers.

A pivotal objective of WFP in Namibia is fostering sustainable food systems. In the Zambezi, Oshana, and Oshikoto regions, the organization has successfully implemented value addition initiatives, benefitting over 600 participants. These initiatives offer valuable training in producing ketchup and jam from tomatoes and employing solar dryers for food preservation.

Moreover, vaccination has emerged as a significant focus for WFP in Namibia, aligning with the African Union’s target of vaccinating at least 70 percent of the African population with safe and effective vaccines. In this regard, WFP has established a service level agreement with the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) and a framework agreement with the Mastercard Foundation.

Leveraging its extensive global supply chain network, WFP efficiently procured 200 temperature monitoring devices, 10 laptops, and 10 monitors, equipped with essential IT accessories. This procurement is a crucial aspect of the larger project, poised to contribute significantly to Namibia’s vaccination targets.

WFP remains steadfast in its commitment to collaborate with the Namibian government and other partners to elevate food security and nutrition across the nation. By implementing diverse and impactful initiatives, WFP is actively contributing to the establishment of a sustainable and resilient food system that will ultimately benefit all Namibians. – Namibia Daily News