Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD): Namibia’s FMD response is ramping up in //Kharas, with the Ministry saying it needs about N$190.2m to contain the outbreak, including a 290km disease-control fence and intensified surveillance, testing and movement controls. Livelihood pressure: Even with the outbreak, farmers are still required to pay agricultural workers the national minimum wage (N$14/hour from 1 January, rising to N$18/hour next year), with no exemption announced yet. FMD support: The FMD Support Fund has mobilised over N$1.5m in biosecurity and field equipment for 30 veterinary teams. Public health & sanitation: In Windhoek’s Okahandja Park, residents report dysfunctional public toilets and worsening conditions, with some allegedly locking facilities after years of neglect—raising health and dignity concerns. Patient safety: The Ministry of Health and Social Services reaffirmed its commitment to safe, respectful, patient-centred care during World Patient Safety Day, stressing systems, complaints handling and patient experience. Mental health: Youth cleaned a mental health facility ahead of World Mental Health Day (10 October), calling for stigma-free support. Violence and road safety: Police are investigating multiple incidents, including alleged rape of minors in Maltahöhe and road crashes that injured or killed children. Breast cancer: Cancer Association of Namibia urges breast cancer patients to share their stories, highlighting that every journey is unique. Health system strain: MPs report severe facility problems across regions, including stalled projects, sanitation gaps and ambulance shortages.