Africa-Press – Namibia. “WE must overcome cancer in Namibia,” declared Prime Minister Dr. Tjitunga Elijah Ngurare, emphasising that the Namibian government remains steadfast in its commitment to the health and well-being of its citizens at the Cancer Awareness and Palliative Care Advocacy Day organised by the Hope Home Based Health Care Centre in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Social Services in Tsumeb, Oshikoto Region.
He highlighted that the government’s dedication is reflected in tangible ways, particularly through national budget allocations. For the current financial year, the Ministry of Health and Social Services was allocated a substantial N$12.2 billion—a figure Dr. Ngurare described not merely as a number but as a demonstration of the high priority the government places on healthcare as a cornerstone of national development.
SELFIE SURPRISE: During the launch of the Cancer Awareness and Palliative Care Advocacy Day, Prime Minister Dr. Tjitunga Elijah Ngurare spotted a young girl with a disability trying to take photos of him from afar. After the programme, he walked past security to meet her and shared a selfie moment. The girl, thrilled by the encounter, shared that she dreams of becoming a lawyer one day. Photos: Office of the Prime Minister OPM Namibia
The launch was attended by Hilma Nikanor, Chairperson of Leaders Assigned to Oshikoto; Executive Director Penda Ithindi representing the Minister of Health and Social Services, Dr. Esparance Luvindao; Tsumeb Mayor Mathews Hangula; councillors, medical professionals, and members of the Tsumeb community.
During the event, Prime Minister Ngurare donated N$5,000 to the Hope Home-Based Health Palliative Care Centre. He described palliative care as a holistic approach aimed at improving the quality of life for individuals with serious, life-limiting, or terminal illnesses, while also providing support to family caregivers.
“This holistic care is not a luxury reserved for a few but a fundamental human right that must be accessible to all,” the Prime Minister said.
The centre, established in 2018 by Eglinde /Uises, cares for over 120 palliative patients and employs 35 staff members. It was founded after Eglinde’s mother passed away following a long illness in their family home, which she and her brother later converted into the care centre.
Prime Minister Ngurare also called for groundbreaking research on cancer in Namibia, urging researchers and higher-learning institutions to develop locally originated treatments and palliative care solutions.
He revealed that advanced plans are underway to develop a National Palliative Care Policy in partnership with the University of Namibia (UNAM). A National Palliative Care Taskforce has already been established, and palliative care has been integrated into the curricula at UNAM and the Namibia Health Training College.
“These steps are essential to ensure that all Namibians have access to quality palliative care and that our country contributes to global efforts in cancer research and treatment,” said the Prime Minister.
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