By:Eba Kandovazu
The Pupkewitz Foundation has constructed a head-of-department building at the Onandjokwe Intermediate Hospital, worth N$ 2.7 million.
The building, consisting of eight offices, a board room and a tea area was on Thursday officially inaugurated by the minister of health and social services Dr Kalumbi Shangula, after six months of construction.
Meryl Barry, chief executive officer of the Pupkewitz Foundation said that the office blocks will complement the work being done by health workers at the hospital.
“This is the only hospital in the country with such a building where health professionalism could be enjoyed by the community,” Barry said.
Meanwhile, Dr Shangula pointed out that various efforts have been made to keep the hospital running as access to health services is crucial.
“The acquisition of modern medical equipment is crucial. It is therefore commendable for the Onandjokwe Intermediate Hospital to engage with the Pupkewitz Foundation,” he noted.
The minister called on staff members at the hospital to take care of the new addition to the health facility.
The hospital has been billedto receive a donation of medical equipment worth N$2.9 million from a non-trinitarian Christian church tomorrow.
“The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is presenting a donation of much-needed medical equipment and supplies to the Onandjokwe Intermediate Hospital worth approximately 170,000 US dollars along with other much-needed care. The Onandjokwe Intermediate Hospital provides maternity services to about 700 mothers per month. The new equipment and supplies will help provide a better quality of care with state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment equipment and supplies,” Womba Nashiwaya, the LDS national communication director told The Villager.
The ministry of health and social services Oshikoto regional director Joshua Nghipangelwa and prominent doctors at the hospital will attend the event.
“Caring for the poor and needy is a foundational belief in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, built on the principles of personal responsibility, community support, self-reliance and sustainability. Humanitarian efforts are designed to give individuals and communities the tools they need to improve their circumstances in permanent and meaningful ways,” Nashiwaya added.