WINDHOEK, Jan.21 — In the high-stakes world of emergency medicine, minutes are the currency of survival. For the non-profit organisation Emergency & Medical Assistance (E.M.A.), 2025 was a year defined by record-breaking outreach, technological leaps, and a community-driven mission to ensure that no Namibian is left behind in their moment of greatest need.
The statistics for 2025 paint a picture of a service in high demand. Over the last twelve months, E.M.A. assisted more than 800 emergency patients. The total value of these emergency responses and direct patient assistance alone exceeded NAD 1.5 million, a staggering contribution to the Namibian healthcare landscape.
Operating under the motto “There when you need us,” E.M.A. provides vital interventions for those who often lack the financial means for private medical care. “Our mission is simple,” says Fabian Martens, 1st chairman of E.M.A. “To make emergency care available for everyone, whether they have medical aid or not.”
The Power of Partnership
This life-saving work is not done in isolation. The backbone of E.M.A.’s operations is its primary sponsor, OSH-Med International (www.osh-med.pro). However, 2025 saw a coalition of local corporate giants stepping up to keep the wheels turning. M+Z Motors, for instance, provided a dedicated ambulance and continues to handle all servicing and technical support for the vehicle, ensuring that emergency services are always on the move. WestCare Medical Centre strengthened the organization from within by managing the vital administrative heavy-lifting that keeps the NPO compliant and efficient. TelTech supported the team with advanced digital radio communications, ensuring that the lines of communication never fail during critical missions. Meanwhile, ATA OSH-Med International contributed the technical expertise and international standards required for high-level rescue operations. Together, these partnerships formed the foundation of E.M.A.’s successful year.
High Demand and Future Growth
Despite the successes of 2025, the pressure on E.M.A. is mounting. To meet the growing needs of Windhoek, the organization has set an urgent goal: a second fully equipped ambulance. The financial mountain is steep, as a new ambulance costs nearly NAD 2 million, while monthly operational costs—including professional medical staff—range between NAD 200,000 and NAD 300,000. Beyond Windhoek, the organization is already planning expansion to other regions and cities across Namibia, aiming to ensure that emergency care reaches even the most remote communities.
The financial picture for 2025 underscores the scale of E.M.A.’s work. Emergency patient assistance alone exceeded 1.5 million NAD, a new fully equipped ambulance would require nearly 2 million NAD, and ongoing monthly running costs range between 200,000 and 300,000 NAD. These figures highlight both the achievements of the past year and the challenges ahead.
Digital Safety: The E.M.A. Emergency App
One of the year’s greatest triumphs is the E.M.A. Emergency App. Sponsored by OSH-Med International since its inception in 2021, the app now boasts over 3,000 users. It allows Namibians to contact the 24/7 Emergency Control Centre directly, providing a literal lifeline in their pocket. To install the app, users can click https://5187003.igen.app, follow the prompt to “Add to Home Screen,” and click “ADD.” The app is free for both Android and iPhone devices, giving all Namibians quick access to emergency support.
9-1-1-2: Education Through Entertainment
2025 also saw the successful launch of the reality-education show “9-1-1-2.” The show gives the public a front-row seat to the heroics of Namibia’s first responders, highlighting the challenges, skills, and bravery involved in emergency medical care. While the show has been a hit, E.M.A. continues to seek sponsors to help fund future seasons. All episodes are available for viewing on YouTube via Bokeh Studios Nam or on Facebook at 9112Namibia.
Call to Action
Companies or individuals looking to support this essential work or sponsor the “9-1-1-2” show are encouraged to contact ema@osh-med.pro or visit the official E.M.A. website.
