AGP Executive Report

Breastfeeding Support at Work: Standard Bank Namibia is rolling out a “mommy’s room” in Windhoek—private space to express and store milk—pushing workplaces to back mothers with dignity, comfort and confidence. Cervical Cancer Prevention: Namibia marks National Cancer Awareness Week with renewed urgency: about 98% of cases are linked to HPV, so HPV vaccination plus routine screening and early treatment are key to cutting deaths. New Clinic Access in Ohangwena: Onamafila Primary Health Centre (nearly N$22m) finally opens after years of delays, easing long trips to Okongo District Hospital for families. Nursing Training Upgrades: MoHSS gazettes new Health Professions Act rules to raise nursing admission requirements, responding to concerns over “mushrooming” nursing schools and weak assessment pass rates. Food Security & Health Risk: A warning follows the death of a child reportedly from severe malnutrition, highlighting how poor infant feeding and low exclusive breastfeeding rates keep undernutrition risks high. Trafficking in Persons: Erongo police report 13 trafficking cases (2010–2024), often first reported as rape, with online scams flagged as a growing pathway. Public Health Advocacy: NAMPU calls for an open-door relationship with NBC, including mental health support and AI training for newsroom staff.

Onamafila Primary Health Centre opens: Ohangwena’s Oshikunde Constituency has officially opened the new Onamafila Primary Health Centre (about N$22m), after years of delays including missing access-road logistics and late plumbing procurement—promising shorter, less costly trips to care for residents. Nursing entry rules tightened: Namibia’s Health Professions Council says new MoHSS regulations under the Health Professions Act (2024) have upgraded nursing admission requirements, aiming to curb “mushrooming” nursing schools after poor national assessment results. Cervical cancer prevention push: During National Cancer Awareness Week, the Cancer Association of Namibia reports about 98% of cases are linked to HPV, calling for higher HPV vaccination and routine screening since many diagnoses are caught late. Disability policy gets local backing: Oshana Region Governor Hofni Iipinge pledged to champion the Revised National Policy on Disability (2025–2035), with a focus on removing barriers for women and girls with disabilities. Youth health education conference: A SADC regional students and youth conference in Windhoek is spotlighting comprehensive sexual and reproductive health education, mental health, and youth access to healthcare. Trafficking warning in Erongo: Police mark World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, noting 13 cases recorded (2010–2024) and warning that online scams are increasingly used to exploit victims.

Cervical Cancer Prevention: Namibia marks National Cancer Awareness Week with new reminders that about 98% of cervical cancer cases are linked to HPV, pushing for higher HPV vaccination and routine screening as many deaths happen when cancer is found late. Health Workforce & Standards: The Health Ministry has gazetted upgraded nursing admission requirements under the Health Professions Act, aiming to curb low-entry intakes after poor performance in last year’s national assessment. Rural Healthcare Gaps: MoHSS says unequal access in rural and remote areas, shortages of specialised staff, and limited infrastructure/equipment remain major barriers to universal health coverage, with plans to expand primary care and strengthen prevention and early screening. Youth Sexual & Reproductive Health: A SADC youth conference in Windhoek focuses on comprehensive sexual and reproductive health education, mental health, and youth access to healthcare, with research highlighting student risk-taking during transitions. Regional Inclusion: Ohangwena governor Hofni Iipinge backs implementation of the Revised National Policy on Disability, stressing that exclusion is worst where gender, poverty and disability intersect. Namibia’s HIV Milestone: UNAIDS reports Namibia has reached global 95-95-95 HIV targets, with viral suppression at 98% among those on treatment.

Nursing Reform: Namibia’s Health Ministry has gazetted new nurse admission regulations under the Health Professions Act, tightening entry requirements after poor performance in last year’s national assessment where over 2,600 nursing and midwifery graduates failed. Youth Sexual & Reproductive Health: A Windhoek youth conference is pushing stronger, research-backed sexual and reproductive health education across the SADC region, with UNAM and the Health Ministry supporting the three-day programme. Disability Inclusion: Oshana Governor Hofni Iipinge is championing the Revised National Policy on Disability (2025–2035), stressing that barriers for people with disabilities remain severe where gender, poverty and disability intersect. Rabies Alert: Scientists warn El Niño-driven weather shifts could worsen rabies risk as aggressive rabid seals spread, following detections in Cape fur seals and confirmed cases in South Africa and Namibia. Rural Health Gaps: The Health Ministry highlights unequal rural access, shortages of specialised staff, and infrastructure and equipment constraints as key hurdles to universal health coverage. Workplace Breastfeeding: Namibia’s employers’ federation backs breastfeeding-friendly workplaces but warns against one-size-fits-all rules for very small businesses and shift-based operations. HIV Milestone: Namibia is among 24 countries worldwide to reach UNAIDS 95-95-95 HIV targets, with strong viral suppression rates reported.

Mining worker health: President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah urged Namibia’s mining sector to fast-track the Occupational Health and Safety Bill and set up post-retirement medical schemes for occupational diseases and injuries that can surface years later. Breastfeeding at work: Namibia’s Employers’ Federation backed practical breastfeeding support for mothers returning to work, while warning against one-size-fits-all rules for very different workplaces. Breastfeeding rates concern: Health officials cited 2024 SMART Nutrition Survey findings showing only 49% of babies (0–5 months) are exclusively breastfed, with early weaning linked to higher illness risk. Road safety: After Western Bypass truck crashes, a road expert said there’s no real alternative route yet, but drivers must manage fatigue and attitude while upgrades like pedestrian bridges are completed. Cybersecurity warning: INTERPOL flagged AI-driven cybercrime as a fast-growing threat across Africa, stressing gaps in cyber capacity and cross-border cooperation. Local health skills: Khomas Regional Council sent medical specialists for a China fellowship to build advanced clinical capacity. Workplace pay deal: Standard Bank Namibia employees agreed to a 6% salary increase and improved allowances, ending a wage dispute. Malaria travel alert: UK health guidance listed Namibia among malaria-risk destinations, urging travellers to take precautions.

Workplace health in mining: President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah urged fast-tracking Namibia’s Occupational Health and Safety Bill and called on mining firms to set up post-retirement medical schemes for occupational diseases and injuries that can surface years later, including for small-scale miners. Social protection push: Labour and social development minister Wise Immanuel, speaking for the President at an AU meeting in Windhoek, said social protection must be treated as a right and expanded to cover informal workers and vulnerable groups to cut poverty and create decent jobs. Breastfeeding support at work: Namibia marked World Breastfeeding Week with calls for breastfeeding-friendly workplace policies—maternity leave, dedicated corners and flexible hours—after SMART Nutrition Survey data showed only 49% of babies (0–5 months) are exclusively breastfed. Cervical cancer prevention: The Cancer Association of Namibia used National Cancer Awareness Week to spotlight HPV vaccination and regular screening, warning cervical cancer remains a major, largely preventable killer of women. Road safety and injuries: Reports linked recent Western Bypass and truck crashes to dangerous road conditions and driver factors, with fatalities and serious injuries prompting renewed calls for upgrades and safer driving. Mental health care boost: Capricorn Foundation donated 75 mattresses to Windhoek Central Hospital’s mental health unit to improve patient comfort and recovery. Health workforce training: Khomas Regional Council sent 12 Namibian medical specialists for a China fellowship to strengthen clinical skills and improve public health services. Cybersecurity and health data risk: INTERPOL warned AI is accelerating cybercrime across Africa, raising concerns for sectors including healthcare that rely on digital systems.

Cervical cancer prevention: The Cancer Association of Namibia is using National Cancer Awareness Week (3–7 August) to push HPV vaccination and regular screening, warning cervical cancer remains the second most common cancer among Namibian women and is largely preventable. Breastfeeding reforms: Namibia is rolling out the “Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding” across maternity wards and clinics after exclusive breastfeeding sits at 49% nationally and just 25% in Khomas, with early return to work blamed; the ministry is also urging employers to create breastfeeding-friendly workplaces. Mental health support: Capricorn Foundation donated 75 mattresses (N$200,000) to the Mental Health Unit at Windhoek Central Hospital to improve comfort and recovery for patients. Road safety and health impacts: Two Western Bypass truck crashes left at least one driver dead and others seriously injured, with cattle killed and traffic disrupted—another reminder of how road trauma strains healthcare. Cybersecurity and health services: Interpol reports AI is accelerating cybercrime across Africa, including attacks targeting healthcare institutions, raising the risk of service disruption. Local health access: CAN’s palliative care programme secured N$1.45m to admit state cancer patients who lack medical aid to its hospice facilities.

Breastfeeding Reforms: Namibia’s Ministry of Health and Social Services is rolling out the “Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding” across maternity wards and antenatal clinics after exclusive breastfeeding remains low (49% nationally; just 25% in Khomas), with fathers and workplaces urged to support mothers. Palliative Cancer Support: The Cancer Association of Namibia (WO30) secured N$1.45m to admit state cancer patients to its hospice facilities in Windhoek and Swakopmund, expanding access to care for people without medical aid. Road Safety & Injuries: Two separate Western Bypass truck crashes in Windhoek left fatalities and serious injuries, including cattle deaths; police urge drivers to slow down and follow traffic officers. Cybercrime Warning: Interpol reports AI is driving a surge in African cybercrime, with ransomware increasingly targeting healthcare and public services, including Namibia. Sanitation Health Risk: Katima Mulilo’s sewage crisis is blamed on an aging system beyond capacity, raising public health concerns ahead of major tourism events. GBV Update: Namibia recorded over 18,500 gender-based violence cases in 2025/26, with police calling for victim-centred services and community prevention. New Health Facility: Okondjatu health centre opened with N$9.3m funding, boosting local access to care. Polio Focus (Regional): Angola says it’s translating recent polio campaign lessons into stronger immunisation plans to accelerate eradication. Local Health Advocacy: Lukato urges citizens to give honest feedback and pushes for referral hospitals in multiple regions to strengthen healthcare delivery.

Breastfeeding push in Khomas: Namibia marks Breastfeeding Week as officials warn exclusive breastfeeding stays low, with Khomas at just 25% and only 49% of babies (0–5 months) exclusively breastfed; fathers are urged to support mothers and workplaces and families are called to create real breastfeeding support. New clinic for remote communities: The N$9.3m Okondjatu Primary Health Care Clinic was inaugurated in Otjozondjupa, expected to serve 5,000+ residents and ease pressure on nearby facilities, with plans for nurse accommodation to keep care consistent. Court case over failed surgery: A Walvis Bay woman is suing the Ministry of Health and Social Services for N$3 million after an alleged botched breast reduction at state hospital, with the matter set to go to trial. GBV numbers remain high: Police recorded more than 18,500 gender-based violence cases in 2025/26, with leaders stressing victim-centred services and community prevention. Road safety and injuries: Two Western Bypass crashes minutes apart left one dead and two seriously injured, highlighting ongoing risks on major routes. Detention conditions: Police say they’re reviewing how trial-awaiting inmates are fed after a court order, aiming to improve meal nutrition and welfare. Social welfare staffing strain: Omaheke has only three social workers for seven constituencies, leaving vulnerable children and GBV survivors struggling to access support. El Niño health risks: Africa faces a 90% chance of a major El Niño event, with warnings of drought, floods, food shortages and disease outbreaks unless countries prepare now. Accident update (Kombat): A pregnant woman and her son killed in a Kombat vehicle crash have been identified, while one other occupant died later in Windhoek.

New Health Facility: The N$9.3 million Okondjatu Primary Health Care Clinic was officially inaugurated in Otjozondjupa, expected to serve over 5,000 residents and ease pressure on nearby facilities, with plans for nurse accommodation to follow. GBV & Support Gaps: Namibia recorded more than 18,500 gender-based violence cases in 2025/26, while Omaheke’s social welfare system is stretched by only three social workers across seven constituencies—leaving vulnerable children and GBV survivors struggling to access help. Court & Patient Safety: A woman is suing the Ministry of Health and Social Services for N$3 million over alleged botched breast reduction surgery at Walvis Bay State Hospital, with the matter set to proceed to trial after failed mediation. Detention Conditions: Police are reviewing inmate meals for trial-awaiting prisoners after a High Court order, with a focus on improving nutritional standards. Road Safety: Two separate truck crashes on Windhoek’s Western Bypass left one dead and two injured, including cattle deaths and euthanised animals at the scene. Child Protection: A 10-year-old boy in Rosh Pinah was allegedly raped by an unknown suspect; police investigations continue. Community Health Access: A call was made to establish a village council in Sangwali to bring services closer, including improved access to health care and proposed border posts.

Primary Health Care Upgrade: Okondjatu residents in Otjozondjupa get a major boost as a new N$9.3m Primary Health Care Clinic is handed over, aiming to serve 5,000+ people and with staff accommodation planned after long delays. Youth Nicotine Alarm: Namibia faces a growing vaping crisis: WHO-linked school survey data shows 23% of 13–17-year-olds use vaping, with devices sold cheaply and confiscations reported even in primary schools. Substance Abuse Crackdown: The National Council pushes for tighter laws on hubbly bubbly and other smoking substances after consultations linked use to depression, neglect, peer pressure and weak school enforcement. Violence and Health Impact: Police report a fatal stabbing outside Mondesa Police Barracks and a separate case of a 10-year-old boy allegedly raped in Rosh Pinah, with investigations ongoing. Road Safety: A pedestrian died near Ondangwa and two pedestrians were injured in Aranos after a driver allegedly fled the scene. Regional Health Funding: WHO’s first-ever Investment Round is set to support critical resources across four African countries and partners. Healthy Ageing Focus: Experts call for including older people in policy and service planning as Africa’s ageing population grows.

Primary Health Care Upgrade: Okondjatu residents in Otjozondjupa finally get a new N$9.3m Primary Health Care Clinic after years of delays, with plans for staff accommodation to keep services running for 5,000+ people. Substance Use & Youth Health: Namibia’s National Council is pushing tighter rules on hubbly bubbly and other smoking substances as school pupils and young people increasingly turn to choefs/vapes, linked to peer pressure, neglect and school dropouts. Nicotine Addiction Alarm: A new report warns vaping is becoming a youth health crisis, citing WHO/Ministry survey figures showing 23% of 13–17-year-olds use vaping, with devices sold cheaply and confiscated even from primary school learners. Health System Accountability: Namibia’s Parliament is criticised for adjourning without passing key laws including the mental health bill, raising concerns about whether MPs are delivering on citizens’ urgent needs. Workplace Rights in Health & Energy: The Presidency launches an urgent probe into TotalEnergies EP employment conditions after workers alleged unfair contract terms, including issues around remuneration, pension and medical aid. Violence & Child Protection: Police report a 10-year-old boy allegedly raped in Rosh Pinah; a sexual assault kit was completed at Luderitz State Hospital and investigations continue. Community Safety: A man died after being stabbed outside Mondesa Police Barracks in Swakopmund; police say a suspect is detained and an autopsy is planned. Healthy Ageing: Experts call for older people to be included in policy and service planning, arguing they should be consulted as contributors—not only beneficiaries. Global Health Funding: 14 African countries, including Namibia, pledged over US$45m to support WHO’s first Investment Round, aiming for more predictable health financing.

Workplace rights: Namibia’s Presidency has launched an urgent probe into alleged “take-it-or-leave-it” employment terms for TotalEnergies EP workers, after concerns about pay, pensions, medical aid and recognition of service. Substance abuse crackdown: Namibia’s National Council is pushing for tighter laws on hubbly bubbly and other smoking substances, citing growing use among school pupils and young people, plus links to school dropouts. Healthy ageing voices: Experts at an AU social development meeting in Windhoek urged governments to include older people in planning and to use their skills in health, education and care systems. Water security: Government is investing about N$87m to replace an ageing coastal pipeline section, aiming to improve reliability for Swakopmund and nearby areas. Food and nutrition: Miss Teen Namibia 2026 Jessica Nokokure Kurth uses her platform to tackle nutrition and food security, highlighting malnutrition concerns in Omaheke. Health funding: 14 African countries, including Namibia, pledged over US$45m to support WHO’s first Investment Round for stronger, more predictable health financing. Public health risk from climate: El Niño is flagged as a major threat across eastern and southern Africa, with floods in the east and drought and crop stress in the south. Sports-health link: A Namibian boxer (Tryagain Morning Ndevelo) featured in India’s Commonwealth Games boxing finals, while India’s Abhishek Sharma was hospitalised with a stomach infection ahead of a match against Namibia.

Commonwealth Games & Boxing: India’s boxing stars dominated CWG 2026 in Glasgow, with Ankush Panghal and Sachin Siwach winning gold and Namibia’s Tryagain Morni Ndevelo and Philip Haoseb facing tough defeats in finals and semis; Jadumani Singh took silver after a close men’s 55kg final, crediting veteran Sarita Devi for diet and training guidance. Youth Health & Substance Use: Namibia’s National Council is pushing for tighter rules on hubbly bubbly and vapes after concerns about depression, neglect, peer pressure and school dropouts linked to smoking among pupils. Healthy Ageing: Experts say older people should be included in policy and community planning, citing Namibia’s ageing population facing difficult conditions and the value of retired professionals’ experience. Water & Public Health Infrastructure: Government is investing about N$87m to replace an ageing coastal pipeline section, aiming to improve reliable water supply to Swakopmund and nearby areas—key for health and daily life. Nutrition & Food Security: Miss Teen Namibia 2026 winner Jessica Nokokure Kurth plans to use her platform to tackle malnutrition through a child-focused nutrition and food security advocacy initiative. El Niño Risk: Reports warn El Niño could disrupt rainfall patterns across eastern and southern Africa, raising risks for floods, drought, crop failure and water shortages.

Tobacco crackdown: Namibia’s National Council is pushing tighter laws on hubbly bubbly, vapes (“choefs”) and other harmful smoking substances after concerns that pupils and young people are increasingly using them, with peer pressure, absent parents and weak school enforcement cited as key drivers. Healthy ageing voices: Experts at an AU social development meeting in Windhoek say older people must be included in policy and service planning, not treated only as beneficiaries, with calls to use retired professionals’ skills to strengthen health and care systems. WHO funding boost: Fourteen African countries, including Namibia, and partners pledged over US$45m to support WHO’s first-ever Investment Round, aiming for more predictable financing for health work over the next four years. Water security investment: Government is spending about N$87m to replace an ageing coastal pipeline section, to improve reliable water supply for Swakopmund, Henties Bay, Arandis and nearby mining/industry. Public health risk from vaping: A Namibian youth vaping story highlights rising nicotine addiction among adolescents, with vaping linked to serious lung problems and calls for stronger prevention. Health infrastructure planning: Karibib’s proposed new public hospital is moving forward after a gazette land rezoning and subdivision notice, with public comments invited until 6 August. Climate threat: Coverage warns El Niño could intensify risks across eastern and southern Africa—floods in the east, drought and crop failure in the south—raising pressure on health and food systems. Regional health cooperation: Namibia and Lesotho signed an Olympic partnership focused on sport development, including sport science and medicine, as part of broader athlete safeguarding and governance work.