Namibia has not recorded cholera cases in over a decade. Health officials emphasize the need for vigilance, due to ongoing risks exacerbated by climate change. WHO reported outbreaks in various African countries, stressing the importance of collaboration and preparedness to prevent cholera. Recent workshops aim to strengthen strategies against potential outbreaks in Namibia.
Namibia has not reported any cholera cases in the past decade, according to Ben Nangombe, Executive Director of the Health Ministry. Nangombe emphasized the necessity of vigilance regarding cholera, particularly due to climate change’s impact on Africa’s outbreak risk. He stated, “The risk persists, and complacency is our greatest adversary. Cholera remains an ever-present threat, exacerbated by climate change, which disproportionately affects regions already vulnerable to waterborne diseases.”
The World Health Organization has documented cholera outbreaks in 18 African nations in 2024, with Burundi, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ghana, Malawi, South Sudan, and Zimbabwe experiencing severe cases. Additionally, Angola has recently issued cholera alerts, raising concerns about potential infections crossing borders.
Nangombe pointed out that extreme weather events have compromised water and sanitation infrastructure, leading to conditions that favor cholera outbreaks. He remarked that 2024’s El Niño prompted droughts in Zambia and Zimbabwe, while heavy rainfall led to flooding and landslides in Kenya and Tanzania.
In response to public health threats, Namibia has enacted several measures including the National Action Plan for Health Security and a Multi-Hazard Health Emergencies Preparedness and Response Plan. These frameworks align with international health regulations, contributing to Namibia’s ability to stave off cholera.
He stressed the importance of ongoing investment in hygiene infrastructure, disease surveillance, and public engagement. The recent three-day workshop, facilitated by WHO experts, aims to identify high-risk areas and enhance Namibia’s readiness for potential cholera outbreaks.
This workshop includes stakeholders from various sectors, such as the Ministry of Health and Social Services and the UN Children’s Fund, with the goal to develop robust outbreak prevention strategies. “Through collaborative efforts and strategic insights, we can craft a plan that not only targets hotspot areas of potential outbreaks but fortifies all regions against the threat of cholera,” stated Nangombe.
Nangombe emphasized the critical need for scientifically informed national plans to verify vulnerability factors delineated by health districts. He remarked, “As we work towards a cholera-free Namibia and Africa, let us remain committed to protecting public health and ensuring that cholera becomes a disease of the past.”
Richard Banda, WHO representative to Namibia, highlighted the organization’s historical context with cholera, noting that the first global epidemic occurred in the 19th century and subsequent pandemics have caused millions of deaths. Banda noted, “Every death from cholera is preventable with the tools we have today,” affirming WHO’s commitment to improve emergency preparedness in collaboration with partners to address the cholera threat effectively.
Overall, Namibia’s proactive measures and its dedication to enhancing health systems reflect a strong commitment to eradicate cholera, ensuring public health safety against potential outbreaks.
In conclusion, Namibia’s absence of cholera cases over the past ten years showcases its effective health management strategies. However, the potential threat posed by climate change requires ongoing vigilance and proactive measures. Collaborative efforts, sound scientific evidence, and sustained investment in health infrastructure are essential to safeguarding against future outbreaks. Namibia’s commitment to maintaining a cholera-free status serves as a model for public health preparedness across the African continent.
Original Source: www.namibian.com.na
