Namibia Breweries Limited (NBL) – a subsidiary of the Ohlthaver & List (O&L) Group – has partnered with the Namibia Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NCCI) and other private sector companies, including the O&L Group, to support the Namibian Government with the severe impact of COVID-19 and through this bring new hope to those fighting for their lives.
In a statement, NBL Managing Director, Marco Wenk says: “Our country is faced with a dire situation as a result of the significant and alarming increase in the number of COVID-19 positive cases in Namibia over the past month. Hospitals around the country no longer have adequate capacity and are currently facing exceptional challenges in terms of a shortage of equipment, medication and especially hospital beds. NBL has therefore pledged N$ 1.8 million to secure a 1,500m2 Field Hospital structure which will greatly support in providing additional beds for Namibians currently in urgent need of hospitalization. We are extremely grateful and humbled to be able to serve our country and be a catalyst for positive change during this difficult time and thank each and every Operating Company within the O&L portfolio for their share in making the above possible.”
The Field Hospital set-up will comprise of a 1,500m2 structure located next to the Windhoek Central Hospital which will be able to accommodate 70 patients. The overall site is of such a size that it would allow for a phase 2 extension to the Field Hospital should same be required. The structure set-up will commence on Tuesday, 29 June 2021.
In addition to the 70-bed Field Hospital donated by NBL, the O&L Group has further pledged an amount of N$1 million, securing a total of 63 tons of life-saving oxygen as the country is currently also facing a huge shortage in medical oxygen. The contribution by O&L, together with other donations from the private sector, will secure the urgent supply of medical oxygen to help save the lives of many Namibians.
“The spike in the COVID-19 positive cases and its ripple effect, is devastating. Our thoughts are with those who have lost loved ones or are severely impacted by the pandemic. We wish to also express our sincere gratitude to our frontline workers for their dedication and commitment to saving lives since the start of the pandemic. Now more than ever, we must take individual responsibility and fully adhere to the COVID-19 protocols. It will take the support and commitment of the entire nation to overcome this pandemic”, Wenk concluded.
