Namibia’s Health Ministry Covers Funeral Costs After Crash

Why this is here: The ambulance was carrying nine patients when it crashed, adding to the total of eleven deaths reported from the incident.

Namibia’s Ministry of Health and Social Services will pay for the funerals of Rebekka Kasheeta, Martha Hangolonde, and Metusalem Kamendu. The three ministry employees—two nurses and a driver—died in an ambulance crash on the B1 road between Otjiwarongo and Okahandja earlier this month. Nine patients traveling in the ambulance also died in the collision.

Minister Esperance Luvindao honored the workers at a memorial service in Windhoek on Monday. She stated Kamendu attempted to avoid the crash but could not maneuver to safety. The ministry will also provide counseling services to the families and community affected by the loss.

Gloria Kamwi, Kasheeta’s aunt, shared the family’s experience learning of the crash on Workers’ Day. She spoke of the shared grief among those who lost loved ones. The article does not detail the cause of the crash or any ongoing investigations.

The ministry continues to offer support to the bereaved as they navigate this loss.