On July 31, 2024, the Capricorn Foundation donated ten infusion pumps, valued at N$264,500.00, to the Gobabis State Hospital Pediatric Ward. The donated pumps are essential monitoring equipment and will be used to administer fluids to the malnourished children admitted to the pediatric ward.
Recent reporting on malnutrition in Namibia revealed that almost 2,000 cases of malnutrition were recorded in the country this year and 300 cases in the Omaheke region alone between January and June 2024. As Connectors of Positive Change, the Capricorn Foundation, under its Health focus area, aims to support better health outcomes by promoting nutrition and enhancing access to healthcare.
The official handover ceremony was attended by the Governor of the Omaheke Region, Hon. Ismael Pijoo Nganate, who mentioned that the malnutrition crisis was worsened by the region's drought and food insecurity.
"I express my sincere gratitude to the Capricorn Foundation for donating these ten infusion pumps to the Gobabis District Hospital Pediatric Ward. Our most vulnerable are children, and they cannot stand for themselves. This donation comes at a critical time and demonstrates the importance of collaborative efforts in improving healthcare services."
The Capricorn Foundation is committed to making a positive impact on the lives of Namibians, particularly children in need. "We are grateful that we can make a difference in the lives of Namibians, especially children. Our support for the Gobabis State Hospital Pediatric Ward falls under our health focus area, where we address health-related issues and support better health outcomes," said Ms Muukua, Capricorn Foundation Coordinator. In March 2024, we visited the Gobabis State Hospital Pediatric Ward to better understand the malnutrition situation in the Omaheke Region and identify how we could provide support."
In response to the hospital's urgent needs, the Capricorn Foundation purchased ten infusion pumps for the Pediatric Ward. This donation builds on previous support, including providing nutritional and protein-rich food items valued at N$291,000.00 in February 2024 through a partnership with the Nutrition and Food Security Alliance of Namibia (NAFSAN).
