Namibia has not recorded any cholera cases in over a decade, according to Ben Nangombe from the Health Ministry. He stressed the persistent threat due to climate change, prompting a validation workshop to enhance preparedness against potential outbreaks. The WHO supports these initiatives, emphasizing the importance of robust health strategies in combating cholera.
Ben Nangombe, the Executive Director of Namibia’s Health Ministry, announced that the country has not recorded any cholera cases in the past decade. Speaking at a cholera elimination validation workshop, he acknowledged that while there have been no cases reported, the threat persists due to factors such as climate change that exacerbate outbreaks across the continent.
Nangombe expressed concern over the ongoing risk of cholera, stating, “The risk persists, and complacency is our greatest adversary.” He highlighted that the cholera epidemic remains a serious concern, particularly in regions already struggling with waterborne diseases, as witnessed by the World Health Organization’s report of 18 cholera outbreaks in various African nations in 2024, including severe cases in Burundi, Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Ghana.
The Executive Director noted that extreme weather conditions, such as floods and droughts, have compromised water sanitation and hygiene infrastructures, making communities more susceptible to cholera outbreaks. He cited instances from 2024 where the El Niño phenomenon caused droughts in Zambia and Zimbabwe, while heavy rains in Kenya and Tanzania resulted in floods and landslides.
In conclusion, while Namibia has successfully avoided cholera cases for over a decade, the threat remains due to ongoing environmental challenges. The implementation of strategic public health measures is crucial to maintaining this success. Collaboration among various sectors and stakeholders is essential to validate vulnerability factors and enhance preparedness against potential outbreaks, with the ultimate goal of eradicating cholera in Namibia and Africa.
Original Source: www.namibian.com.na
