Health ministry pays tribute to nurses killed in crash

The Ministry of Health and Social Services says it will cover the funeral costs of three of its staff members – two nurses and a Khorixas State Hospital driver – who died in an ambulance crash on the B1 road between Otjiwarongo and Okahandja earlier this month. Among those who died were registered nurse Rebekka Kasheeta, enrolled nurse Martha Hangolonde and mortuary assistant and driver Metusalem Kamendu, all employees of the ministry. Nine patients also died.

Health minister Esperance Luvindao during a memorial service in their honour in Windhoek on Monday said Kamendu, who had been driving, had tried to avoid the collision, but was unable to find a safe escape route. The memorial service was attended by health ministry senior officials, representatives of the Motor Vehicle Accident Fund and grieving family members. Luvindao assured the bereaved families and community members the government will support them with counselling services and cover the funeral costs.