Residents Criticize Government Over Stalled $181 Million Hospital Project in Windhoek

Residents and opposition parties in Namibia have criticized the government for failing to commence construction of a planned state hospital valued at N$2.9 billion (approximately $181.9 million).

The 500-bed facility, initially scheduled for completion in 2027, was intended to ease the burden on Katutura Intermediate Hospital, but construction has yet to progress two years after the groundbreaking ceremony.

Many residents view the project as a political tool, accusing the ruling Swapo party of using it to garner votes ahead of the 2024 elections. During the groundbreaking in 2024, former Minister of Health and Social Services, Kalumbi Shangula, insisted that the hospital was not intended as a campaign instrument.

Similarly, President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, who was Vice President at the time, highlighted that the hospital’s construction would generate hundreds of jobs.

However, a report from local media at the time revealed that the Ministry had not yet advertised any construction bids. The Central Procurement Board of Namibia has also not provided updates, leaving residents frustrated over the delay.

Namibia said it had not received a tender regarding the planned hospital.