Private and public healthcare can work together in Africa
via The Namibian2 min read
Private healthcare is expanding across Africa, including Namibia, as patients seek speed, reliability, and improved service that public systems often struggle to provide due to resource constraints. This growth is not a sign of public sector failure but rather a response to increasing demand and a desire for predictable, timely, and accountable care. Historically, non-state providers, including church-linked institutions, have long supplemented government efforts, particularly in underserved areas. Modern private medicine offers benefits such as faster consultations, quicker diagnostics, shorter waiting times, and better access to specialists. While public healthcare remains crucial as the backbone of access for most, the private sector can complement it by bringing innovation, efficiency, specialist skills, and higher service standards. The key is to establish a well-regulated system where both public and private providers operate under fair rules, with patient interests at the forefront, to increase overall healthcare capacity and choice.
Free daily or weekly digest of the most important stories from across 18 African countries. No spam, unsubscribe any time.
This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by The Namibian.
Young people are showing growing interest in environmental careers, a shift from past generations who typically aspired to professions like medicine or law. This change is driven by increased awareness of climate change, water conservation, and sustainability. Many young individuals begin their journey through simple actions such as school clean-up campaigns or social media discussions. Environmental science offers a purposeful career path for those seeking to solve problems and contribute to a sustainable future, with roles in water resource management, climate research, renewable energy, and conservation. Young people are actively participating in climate conferences, environmental forums, and awareness campaigns, demonstrating that age is not a barrier to impact. Engaging in activities like recycling, tree planting, or educating others can ignite a passion for environmental stewardship. As environmental challenges persist, the involvement of young people in shaping a sustainable future through curiosity, education, and action is becoming increasingly vital, fostering the emergence of a new generation of environmental leaders.
The Namibian Competition Commission has approved a transaction involving TotalEnergies EP Namibia BV and Windhoek PEL 28 BV for the exchange of participating interests in petroleum exploration licences 83, 56, and 91. According to Johannes Ashipala, director of mergers and acquisitions, the commission found that the transaction, despite involving a horizontal overlap, would result in only a marginal change in market share and would not materially affect competition. The regulator concluded that the market remains competitive and identified no public interest concerns. This approval occurs as Namibia's emerging oil and gas sector continues to attract investment from international energy companies.
Must ReadThe Traditional Authorities Act permits community members to remove chiefs or heads of traditional communities for sufficient reason and in accordance with customary law. This comes amid voting sessions by |Khomanin community members to remove their chief, Juliane Gawa-!Nas, and her council over allegations of selling land and misappropriating donations. This contrasts with a statement by minister of urban and rural development James Sankwasa, who indicated that only royal families could remove traditional leaders. Mike Tshilongo, an advocate for the Uukwambi Legitimate Chieftaincy, questioned the minister's position, citing the ministry's previous removal of chief Sagarias Seibeb of the Dâure Daman Traditional Authority. Tshilongo emphasized that the law refers to "members of the traditional community" and not exclusively to royal families, warning against inconsistent interpretations that could undermine public trust. George Nelulu of Oukwanyama supported the community's right to remove a chief for valid reasons, while Shiimi Shangula, spokesperson for the Ongandjera Traditional Authority, stated that community members can only raise disputes to the royal family. Ondonga Traditional Authority secretary Frans Enkali noted that removal processes follow specific community practices. Independent observer Kae Matundu-Tjiparuro affirmed the community's right to express themselves regarding a chief's removal, especially if the leader was elected. The |Khomanin Traditional Authorit
Must ReadThe Mineworkers Union of Namibia MUN announced that its investment structures now hold assets valued at over N$900 million. This figure was disclosed during a media engagement in Windhoek, where the union detailed its investment activities and recent efforts to safeguard jobs within the mining sector. The assets are managed through the Namibia Mineworkers Trust Namitvest and the Namibia Mineworkers Investment Holdings Company Nammic, which invest on behalf of union members and beneficiaries. Union president Poco-Key Mberiuana emphasized that the union's mission extends beyond collective bargaining and labor representation. General secretary George Ampweya added that a key aspect of their work involves advancing the long-term economic interests of workers and maintaining transparent communication. The MUN has recently supported employees facing retrenchment and voluntary separation programs at companies such as Finestar Jewellery and Diamond Namibia and the Sinomine Tsumeb Smelter. Additionally, the union's education fund has provided bursaries, assisting over 580 students with their tertiary education. The MUN is preparing to celebrate its 40th anniversary in November, with plans to host regional discussions on labor reform, worker welfare, and participation in Namibia’s mining value chain.