Nairobi: Minister of Health and Social Services Esperance Luvindao on Wednesday inaugurated the renovated radiology and laboratory units at St Mary's Hospital in Rehoboth. The updates to these units mark the completion of Phase III in the hospital's ongoing modernisation programme, with practical completion achieved in September 2025 and full licensing attained in January 2026.According to Namibia Press Agency, Minister Luvindao highlighted the government's dedication to providing equitable access to quality healthcare across all regions. The upgrades are anticipated to enhance diagnostic services for over 53,000 residents in the Rehoboth district. St Mary's Hospital, operational since 1943, admits approximately 6,000 patients annually and handles around 18,000 emergency cases, many of which involve road accidents along the Rehoboth-Windhoek corridor.The minister noted that the revamped radiology unit has already demonstrated its value, with nearly 10,000 X-ray examinations conducted annually and over 4,2 00 digital X-rays performed since the unit's operational status began in January. The transition to digital radiography facilitates instant sharing of medical images with specialists in Windhoek, thus minimizing patient travel and enhancing diagnostic precision.The laboratory upgrade now allows for the processing of up to 78,000 specimens each year, which will improve operational efficiency, reduce contamination risks, and bolster the diagnosis and monitoring of diseases such as HIV, tuberculosis, diabetes, and hypertension.The Ministry of Health and Social Services plans to continue with Phase IV and Phase V of the hospital's redevelopment, focusing on renovating outpatient, administration, kitchen, and laundry facilities. The mayor encouraged residents to safeguard public healthcare facilities, emphasizing that the renovated units should become centers for early illness detection, life-saving interventions, and the provision of dignified and compassionate care to all patients.