Namibia outperforms region in public health

The Namibian government, in partnership with the WHO, unveiled the African Health Workforce Investment Charter on 6 May at the inaugural Africa Health Workforce Investment Forum. The charter’s launch signified a coordinated effort to bolster investments in health workforce education, employment, and retention, with a specific focus on reducing disparities and enhancing health outcomes, particularly in underserved regions.

Attended by about 170 delegates, including ministers of health, labor and finance from 18 African countries, the forum commenced with an opening address by Namibian Prime Minister Saara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila.

Namibia stands out favourably compared to regional benchmarks in public health, thanks to collective efforts from the government, private sector, and development cooperation partners. Prime Minister Saara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila expressed these sentiments during her inaugural statement at the opening ceremony of the World Health Organization Africa Health Workforce Investment Forum in Windhoek. She stressed the importance of investing in capacity building, and infrastructure development, providing necessary tools, and ensuring a conducive environment for health professionals to effectively carry out their duties. Here is Prime Minister Saara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila speaking on the matter.