Erongo RED has donated seven unused oxygen concentrators to the Erongo Medical Fraternity . The concentrators , valued at over N . dollars 225 000 , will be distributed to the Walvis Bay State Hospital , which will receive three , Swakopmund State Hospital , which will get receive two , while the Usakos and Omaruru State hospitals will each get one . In addition to this donation , Erongo RED recently assisted the Swakopmund State Hospital with electrical connections and is also planning to repair and replace streetlights outside the hospital at the cost of N . dollars 35 000 . In his remarks during the handover ceremony , Erongo RED Chief Executive Officer , Immanuel ! Hanabeb , noted that the donation reflects one of the core pillars of the company ‘ s corporate social responsibility , which emphasises health and well – being . ‘ We are aware of the ongoing shortage of oxygen concentrators at state medical facilities and some hospitals are rationing these devices between patients in the hospital and those re
ceiving care at home . It is a tough situation , but one where we believe we can help with any small contribution , which can greatly assist in providing life – saving care ,’ he expressed . Accepting the donation , Erongo Region Chief Medical Officer , Dr Leonard Kabongo Kabongo , stresssed the importance of oxygen concentrators , particularly for individuals with chronic respiratory conditions , adding that even after the pandemic , a high number of patients suffering from chronic respiratory diseases was witnessed . He noted that these conditions are among the top ten causes of death in the region , with lung cancer , chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases , pneumonias , bronchitis , and pneumoconiosis being prevalent . Kabongo emphasised the importance of the support provided by the corporate community and other stakeholders , which was crucial in setting up intensive care units delivering oxygen to patients , and equipping the healthcare system with essential resources . ‘ During the pandemic , we relied
heavily on the assistance to establish our ICU facilities , provide necessary equipment , and ensure oxygen was available to patients . Therefore , the support we receive from the corporate community highlights that the health ministry cannot do it alone . Health is priceless , and so is oxygen – without it , we cannot live ,’ he said , adding that the oxygen concentrators , which can deliver up to five litres of oxygen per minute , will be a crucial resource not only for hospitals but also for palliative care and home use .
Source: The Namibia Press Agency