From Allafrica · · 1m
Namibia launches air ambulance to save lives
Namibia's first air ambulance service cuts travel time for emergencies, preventing deaths in remote areas.
In brief
Namibia's first air ambulance service cuts travel time for emergencies, preventing deaths in remote areas. Namibia launched its first state-owned air ambulance to reduce death risks from long road journeys in remote areas. Originally reported by Allafrica.
Tragedy in Katima Mulilo
A 12-year-old boy died while waiting for transfer from Katima Mulilo to Windhoek.
“Unfortunately, in the early hours of the next morning, I got a call that this 12-year-old boy had passed away”
Health minister's response
Health minister Esperance Luvindao recalled the boy's death and another road accident in April 2026.
“Unfortunately, this was not possible and lives were lost”
New air ambulance service
Namibia launched its first state-owned air ambulance to reduce emergency travel time.
“No Namibian should lose their life simply because they live far from a hospital”
Service details
The service uses a Learjet with medical equipment and works with police and defense forces.
“The air ambulance is expected to reduce some journeys that take hours by road to minutes or a few short hours by air”
Patient prioritization
The service prioritizes trauma, neurological, cardiac and obstetric emergencies.
“The service will prioritise patients who require urgent specialist treatment”
Government commitment
The government plans four new hospitals but focuses on immediate emergency care.
“While we build those hospitals, Namibians want service. While we build those hospitals, there is another 12-year-old boy that might have severe head injuries and need urgent transportation”
Next steps
The service will cut travel time for emergencies, saving lives in remote areas.
“The service is expected to reduce the time critically ill and injured patients spend travelling to specialised hospitals”
The short version
Namibia launched its first state-owned air ambulance to reduce death risks from long road journeys in remote areas.
