Windhoek:Former First Lady Penehupifo Pohamba's significant contributions to maternal and child health, HIV prevention, cancer awareness, and access to medical care for vulnerable Namibians have been praised as a lasting legacy. Her dedication to public healthcare has extended beyond her tenure in State House.
According to NAMPA, Pohamba, the wife of Namibia's second President Hifikepunye Pohamba, was a professional nurse and midwife who devoted much of her life to public service. Her career in nursing began in the early 1970s at St Mary Health Centre in Odibo, and she furthered her training in Tanzania and Jamaica following her exile in 1974. During Namibia's war of independence, she provided medical care in refugee camps in Zambia and Angola. After Namibia gained independence, she served in various hospitals, ultimately retiring in 2005 to fulfill her duties as first lady, while continuing her volunteer work until 2008.
On Tuesday, health sector representatives gathered at the Pohamba family home in Windhoek to reflect on her impact on healthcare priorities and patient dignity, particularly for women, children, and disadvantaged families. Deputy Minister of Health and Social Services, Suzan Ndjaleka, described Pohamba as both a valued member of the health professional community and a former first lady. Ndjaleka emphasized Pohamba's commitment to service and her advocacy for safer pregnancies and childbirth, HIV prevention, and cancer screening.
Pohamba's collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Social Services and the United Nations Population Fund mobilized political commitment and public awareness for maternal and newborn health improvements. Her influence also reached the private healthcare sector, with Lady Pohamba Private Hospital in Windhoek named in her honor. The hospital's CEO, Baronice Hans, noted Pohamba's dedication to the professional development of nurses in Namibia.
Pohamba also supported organizations like the NamPharm Foundation, which focuses on improving healthcare access for vulnerable children. Carol Musarurwa of the foundation highlighted Pohamba's long-standing support for children with serious medical conditions.
Beyond her public service, Pohamba's daughter, Katchina Shiluwa-Marino, shared personal memories of her mother's humility and compassion. Shiluwa-Marino recounted her first meeting with her mother in a refugee camp and her experiences of Pohamba's modest lifestyle despite her prominent role.
Penehupifo Pohamba will be laid to rest in her home village of Okanghudi, Ohangwena Region, on 31 October. She leaves behind her husband, five children, and eight grandchildren.