Pretoria: The Ministry of Health and Social Services has highlighted ongoing ICT challenges affecting health facilities across the Kunene Region, with poor internet connectivity disrupting the delivery of essential healthcare services. The ministry said unreliable connectivity and inadequate ICT infrastructure continue to affect the efficiency of healthcare operations, particularly at remote health facilities.According to Namibia Press Agency, addressing the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in Opuwo on Monday, Health Programme Officer Itumeleng Boois said unreliable internet connectivity, particularly at remote clinics that rely on VSAT satellite systems, remains a major obstacle to efficient healthcare delivery. Boois noted that poor network coverage, outdated ICT equipment, limited funding, insufficient computers, and disconnected digital systems remain key challenges affecting healthcare service delivery.'To address these challenges, the ministry is pri oritising improved internet bandwidth, expanded network infrastructure, integrated e-health systems, continuous ICT training for health workers, and the replacement of outdated technology,' Boois said. She explained that unstable internet services limit healthcare workers' ability to access electronic patient records, communicate efficiently with other health facilities, and utilise digital health systems that support patient care, reporting, and planning.'Improving digital infrastructure is essential to modernising healthcare services, particularly in rural communities where access to reliable communication remains limited,' Boois stated. She further identified Ombombo Clinic as a priority area for ICT infrastructure development, saying additional communication towers are needed to improve connectivity for health facilities, schools, and surrounding communities.Members of Parliament serving on the ICT committee stressed the need for integrated digital systems to strengthen healthcare planning and improve public service delivery across the region. The committee said accelerating digital transformation is critical to ensuring that essential government services are accessible to communities in remote areas and that investments in ICT infrastructure translate into improved service delivery.The discussions formed part of the committee's oversight visit this week to the Kunene Region, where members are engaging government institutions and telecommunications stakeholders on the implementation of ICT projects aimed at expanding connectivity and promoting universal access to digital services. The committee is expected to visit schools, clinics, and other public institutions in selected parts of the region to assess ICT infrastructure and evaluate its contribution to improving education, healthcare, and other government services.