Windhoek:The groundbreaking ceremony for the Windhoek District Hospital in the Havana suburb took place two years ago, aiming to address the congestion at the Katutura Intermediate Hospital and the Windhoek Central Hospital. The project was designed to deliver a 500-bed facility with essential infrastructure such as staff accommodation, mental health units, and frail care.
According to Namibia Press Agency, former Health Minister Dr. Kalumbi Shangula explained that the Havana hospital was part of a national initiative to build five major hospitals, with Windhoek prioritized to alleviate strain on existing facilities in the Khomas region. Originally intended as a 250-bed hospital, the plan expanded to 500 beds as its role in healthcare delivery was better defined. Negotiations for land acquisition from the City of Windhoek were prolonged, further delayed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Shangula noted that while the national State of Emergency for COVID-19 delayed progress, the construction process resumed in 2023. The project is divided into phases, with the first phase focusing on preliminary studies, scheduled from 2023 to 2025, and subsequent phases involving site preparation and infrastructure development through 2025.
The former minister assured that the project is largely on track despite typical delays for a project of such scale. The Professional Team, including architects, engineers, and Sakhiwo Health Solution, is managing the execution.
Walter Kamaya, the health ministry's public relations officer, confirmed that funding has been secured and that external bulk civil and electrical works are underway, although financial and logistical challenges have caused some delays. The estimated project cost has risen to N$3.2 billion, up from an initial N$2.9 billion.
Prime Minister Elijah Ngurare and Minister of Health and Social Services Dr. Esperance Luvindao have set an 18-month timeline for building four new hospitals, including the Havana facility. They emphasized the importance of collaboration and community involvement to expedite these projects. The government plans to ensure strong oversight to deliver quality healthcare facilities efficiently.