New donation to Windhoek Central Hospital’s Oncology department comes as cancer cases rise 12% annually, with late diagnosis claiming lives that early screening could save.
In a strong show of solidarity on World Cancer Day, Ohlthaver & List (O&L) handed over a Corporate Social Investment (CSI) donation of N$500,000 to the Oncology department of the Windhoek Central Hospital to support cancer screening, patient support services and awareness initiatives. Theresa Weitz, Chief Financial Officer of the Ohlthaver & List Group of Companies, presented the donation to Honourable Minister of Health and Social Services Dr. Esperance Luvindao during a ceremony one day before World Cancer Day 2026.
"Behind every cancer diagnosis is a person, a family and a community facing one of life's greatest challenges," said Theresa. "This donation reflects O&L's commitment to authentic, caring partnerships that create measurable impact. We view this donation as part of our partnership with Government and health stakeholders - one grounded in respect, accountability and a shared commitment to improving lives. We are grateful for the opportunity to support national priorities and strengthen service delivery.”
In a heartfelt key note address, Honourable Minister Dr. Esperance Luvindao thanked O&L and the private sector, stating: "The contribution of O&L today for me is not just figures, not just money. It is what it symbolises. And we hope that this will stand as a symbol to other corporates, other partners that are looking and saying it is the ministry's role. And I challenge us today that it is not the ministry's function alone.”
Minister Luvindao emphasised that fighting cancer requires united efforts beyond the ministry, declaring "We stand and we hold hands together so that we can achieve the health care system that we all want. Fighting cancer is a national priority." The Minister highlighted Africa's disproportionate cancer deaths due to limited access to early diagnosis and treatment, urging Namibians to avoid misinformation and prioritise early detection through regular screenings. She praised healthcare workers as "the strongest warriors" and officially accepted O&L's donation, while recommitting the Ministry to providing better care for cancer patients and improved working conditions for healthcare workers.
O&L’s contribution comes as Namibia intensifies its fight against cancer through multiple fronts. In 2024, over 2,210 women accessed screening through national programmes. The groundbreaking first International Cancer Genomics Conference was held in Windhoek in September 2025, bringing together WHO expertise and local researchers to advance diagnosis and treatment. Major fundraising initiatives—including the Bank Windhoek Cancer Apple Project and the Rough n Tough Rally—demonstrate strong community support for cancer care infrastructure.
The 2025-27 World Cancer Day campaign theme "United by Unique" resonates deeply in Namibia's approach to cancer care—recognising that while each cancer journey is personal, collective action strengthens outcomes for all.
O&L's Corporate Social Investment strategy prioritises long-term social resilience, with health and wellness as one of the core support areas. The Group works in partnership with government and trusted institutions to strengthen Namibia's health ecosystem and improve community wellbeing.
For Namibians navigating cancer journeys, initiatives like today's donation translate into tangible resources: accessible screening that catches disease early, support services that provide guidance through treatment and awareness programmes that empower communities with life-saving knowledge.
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