In the first two weeks of July Namibia exceeded 100,000 cumulative COVID-19 cases. Tragically, more than 2,000 deaths have been recorded averaging between 20 and 30 deaths a day. The rate of transmission and positivity ratio is high and if left unabated could become unmanageable. The President of Namibia on Thursday 15th July urged the public to prevent unnecessary movement and to stay at home.
The private sector coalition led by the Namibia Chamber of Commerce and Industry is particularly focusing on oxygen supply, facilities, equipment and other critical medical supplies. Close to N$ 20 million have been donated to promote awareness of adherence to Covid-19 regulations in the business community, as well as mobilise private sector resources to save lives. Bannerman is one of many Chamber of Mines members that have contributed to this initiative.
In the Erongo Region, hospitals were unable to cope with the number of patients with the sick waiting in their vehicles outside the hospital hoping that a bed may become available. The Swakopmund Regional Councillor Ms. Ciske Smith-Howard mobilised a team to convert the Townhall into a ‘make-shift’ hospital initially providing an additional 15 beds with oxygenators and other medical equipment. Bannerman has supported this with a donation to fund 3 oxygenators and other vital equipment.
