Cunene: The director of the Health Department in Cunene Province, Alberto Ndautapo, highlighted on Wednesday the progress made in the healthcare network and the training of staff as a milestone in the sector's development in the region.
According to Angola Press News Agency, Alberto Ndautapo stated that with the opening of the Simione Mucune General Hospital in August 2024, the province now has a teaching hospital, where 214 postgraduate nurses are currently in training. He also highlighted the training of 148 diagnostic and therapeutic technicians specializing in laboratory biochemistry and 58 doctors undertaking specialist training.
He explained that the theme of the anniversary celebrations, 'Together for Health, Supporting Science', is in line with the Ministry of Health's program to train specialist staff by investing in science to promote more humane and high-quality care. The official emphasized the government's commitment to building healthcare infrastructure, with state-of-the-art equipment and specialized services in this region, which has reduced the need to transfer patients from Cunene to the Republic of Namibia.
The director encouraged the technical staff to continue working professionally, despite the poor working conditions, emphasizing that new policies and operational mechanisms are currently being introduced. "A large proportion of hospital death statistics stem from patients arriving too late, which is why we urge people to go to a health centre for diagnosis and specialist care if they experience symptoms of any illness," he stressed.
World Health Day was established by the World Health Organisation on 7 April 1948, at its first assembly.
