Africa-Press – Namibia. The Minister of Health and Social Services, Esperance Luvidao, has pledged to intensify efforts to combat malaria following a sharp rise in cases across the country.
As of 9 March 2025, Namibia recorded 20 135 malaria cases, with 3 890 reported in the first week of March alone. The outbreak, declared in December 2024, has so far resulted in 44 deaths, according to the ministry.
The most affected districts include Katima Mulilo, Andara, Nkurenkuru, Outapi, Engela, Eenhana, Okongo, and Nyangana.
Although she did not provide updated figures, Luvidao assured the nation the situation was under control and urged citizens not to panic.
The minister was responding to a question in Parliament from Affirmative Repositioning (AR) movement member George Kambala, who sought clarification on the government’s measures to contain the outbreak.
Kambala highlighted that by 23 April, 80 malaria cases had been reported in Windhoek alone.
“The public deserves an update from our government on what is being done to contain the spread of malaria, especially among school-going children,” Kambala said.
In response, Luvidao acknowledged the spike in cases but stressed the government is actively implementing measures to manage the outbreak. She reaffirmed that malaria remains a priority for her ministry.
“The Ministry of Health and Social Services is fully aware of the outbreak and the increasing number of cases. We have deployed additional health officials to support community health workers in affected areas, providing education on prevention, treatment, and cure,” Luvidao said.
She urged members of the public to stay calm and adhere strictly to prevention guidelines. Measures currently being implemented include widespread residual spraying, mosquito net distribution, and ongoing awareness campaigns to curb the spread of the disease.
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