Psemas Reform: Forcing Faith in Public Healthcare

I’ve been thinking about the government’s decision to require state employees to use designated public hospitals. Last year, president Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah announced that from April 2026, senior officials and all staff under the Public Service Employees Medical Aid Scheme would no longer be allowed to opt for private care.On the surface, it sounds reasonable. If we want effective functional public hospitals, surely those who serve the public should also use them. The move forms part of the ruling party’s five-year N$85.7 billion development plan to upgrade public hospitals and clinics to match private standards. I understand the intention. Namibia’s public health system has struggled with service delivery and shortages of staff, equipment and medicines.

Ndumba J Kamwanyah, 01 March, 2026