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Dr. Kgosi Letlape
Ophthalmologist, Health Activist & MP at South African ParliamentDr. Kgosi Letlape is a distinguished South African ophthalmologist and health activist, renowned for his substantial contributions to the medical field and his unwavering commitment to healthcare equity. An ophthalmologist by training, Dr. Letlape has chosen to devote his career to health activism, leveraging his expertise to advocate for accessible and quality healthcare for all South Africans.
Dr. Letlape's medical career is marked by several pioneering achievements. He became the first black South African to qualify as an ophthalmologist during the apartheid era, breaking significant racial barriers in the medical field. His dedication to the medical profession extended beyond his clinical practice; he assumed numerous leadership roles, including the presidency of the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) and the South African Medical Association (SAMA).
In 2006, Dr. Letlape founded the Africa Medical Association (AMA) to foster collaboration among medical professionals across the continent. He also served as the President of the World Medical Association (WMA), becoming the first black individual to hold this prestigious global position. His tenure at the WMA highlighted his commitment to advocating for physicians' rights and improving healthcare standards worldwide.
Dr. Letlape's activism is not limited to professional organizations. He co-founded the Africa Harm Reduction Alliance (AHRA), focusing on reducing health-related harm and promoting well-being across Africa. His role in establishing the Tshepang Trust in 2002, alongside the Nelson Mandela Foundation and SAMA, was pivotal in providing antiretroviral treatment to HIV-positive patients in South Africa during a period when government support was lacking.
His educational credentials are robust, having earned his MBChB from the University of KwaZulu-Natal in 1981. He further specialized in ophthalmology, receiving his FSC (OPHTH) from the College of Ophthalmology Medicine South Africa and his FRCS (OPHTH) from the University of Edinburgh in 1988.
In addition to his medical and activist roles, Dr. Letlape has recently ventured into the political arena. He is currently a Member of Parliament in South Africa. In this capacity, he continues to influence healthcare policy, striving to ensure that every South African has access to affordable and quality healthcare. His involvement in politics is driven by his vision of a healthcare system that is not only reactive but also proactively managed to enhance the quality of life for all citizens.
Dr. Kgosi Letlape's career encapsulates the essence of dedication to healthcare and activism. As an ophthalmologist by training and a health activist by choice, his ongoing contributions continue to inspire and effect significant changes in the healthcare landscape of South Africa and beyond.
Dr. Harald Gleissner
Owner & Specialist CranioMaxillofacial Surgeon at CMF Surgery Practice"Dr. Harald Gleißner is a distinguished specialist in craniomaxillofacial surgery with an extensive background in both human medicine and dentistry. He obtained his degrees in these fields at the University of Wuerzburg and Erlangen in Germany. He dedicated his career to advancing the practice of craniomaxillofacial surgery through innovative techniques and cutting-edge technology.
Dr. Gleißner's professional journey began at Inselspital Bern, where he honed his skills from 2016 to 2018. He then contributed his expertise to Klinikum Nürnberg Süd from 2019 to 2020, where he established 3D printing as a new standard in treating trauma and tumor patients . His commitment to excellence led him to the interregional practice for craniomaxillofacial surgery Dr’s. Smolka, Hübner, Nitsche, Friesenecker, where he worked from 2020 to 2022.
In 2023, Dr. Gleißner became the owner and partner of "Die Zahnchirurgen", a practice renowned for its state-of-the-art approaches in dental and facial surgery. His areas of expertise include craniomaxillofacial surgery, digital implantology, and the innovative use of 3D printing technologies."
Professor. Hyla-Louise Kluyts
Professor and Head of the Department of Anaesthesiology & Critical Care at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) and Dr George Mukhari Academic Hospital.Brief biography
I am an anaesthesiologist (specialist anaesthetist) with experience in critical care and a clinical interest in
perioperative medicine. I am Professor and Head of the Department of Anaesthesiology & Critical Care at Sefako
Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) and Dr George Mukhari Academic Hospital. As the first female full
professor in Anaesthesiology in South Africa, I am committed to promoting excellence in teaching and research at
SMU, considered a Historically Disadvantaged Institution (HDI). My research focus as NRF-rated researcher is to
understand the predictors (patient-, procedure- or system/setting-related) of postoperative outcome, and risk
modification - particularly the role of patient-centered teamwork in resource-constrained environments. I believe it
is possible to align these interests with a strategic plan for coordinating research in a proposed multidisciplinary
Global Surgery Unit at SMU. I founded a non-profit company to support collaborative perioperative research and
develop tools to improve access to data for perioperative clinicians. This company (Safe Surgery SA) administers
the African Perioperative Research Group (APORG) and the online interactive platform the Group uses. SMU and
Safe Surgery SA have a collaborative research agreement in place. I was national lead investigator for South
Africa in the African Surgical Outcomes Study (ASOS) and ASOS-2 Trial and serve on the steering committee for
other multicentre African studies. I received category C2 rating from the National Research Foundation in 2023.
Having spent seven years in a private anaesthesia partnership practice and six years on the executive committee
of the SA Society of Anaesthesiologists, I have a fair grasp of the challenges faced in both the private and public
South African healthcare sectors. My participation as member of the World Federation of Societies of
Anaesthesiologists’ Safety and Quality of Practice committee for two terms (2016 to 2024), and engagement with
international colleagues, has broadened my view of the local and African situation in the context of global
healthcare. My interest in the principles and practice of Open Science, Clinical Data Science, Citizen Science and
Health Economics and Outcomes Research assists me in augmenting my clinical- and research endeavours. I am
recipient of grants from amongst others the SA Medical Research Council’s Research Capacity Development
Initiative, and most recently, the World Federation of Societies of Anaesthesiology.
I live near Hartbeespoort Dam, Gauteng, South Africa, with my husband and two daughters.
Highest Degree
Doctor of Medicine (DMed) Anaesthesiology September 2019 University of Pretoria
Thesis title: Clinical Prediction Models for Risk-adjusted Outcomes in South African Surgical Patients
Professional registration
Health Professions Council of South Africa: MP 0421529
Board of Healthcare Funders: 0029246
Dr. John Abebrese
Senior Medical Officer: Surgery at MoHSS - Windhoek Central HospitalDr. Abebrese is a dedicated Medical Officer in the Department of Surgery at Windhoek Central Hospital. With a strong commitment to advancing medical knowledge, Dr. Abebrese also serves as a clinical researcher. His professional interests are centred on collaborative research, reflecting his passion for working with multidisciplinary teams to drive innovations in patient care and surgical outcomes. Dr. Abebrese is focused on contributing to meaningful research that bridges clinical practice with evidence-based medicine, enhancing the quality of healthcare delivery.
Dr. Magano Akuaake
Emergency Medicine Physician at Welwitschia HospitalDr. Akuaake is a recently qualified Emergency Medicine Physician currently working at Welwitschia Hospital. With a profound passion for advancing healthcare, Dr. Akuaake is dedicated to patient advocacy and the promotion of health equity. She is committed to enhancing healthcare through education and adopts a holistic, multidisciplinary approach to the emergency care of patients.
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Ms. Selma Amwaama
CoHPO - HRD at Ministry of Health & Social Services
Dr. Ester Angula
HOD & Senior Lecturer at University of NamibiaDr. Ester Angula is a Mechanical Engineer by profession and currently serves as a Senior Lecturer and Head of the Department of Mechanical and Metallurgical Engineering at the University of Namibia. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Engineering and Technology (Mechanical Engineering) from Saint Petersburg State Polytechnical University, Russia. Additionally, Dr. Angula has earned a Master of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Stellenbosch, South Africa, and a PhD in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Namibia.
Dr. Steffen Bau
Paediatrician at Lady Pohamba Private Hospital (LPPH)Dr. Steffen Bau completed his undergraduate education at the University of Leipzig, Germany, from 2000 to 2007. Following his studies, he undertook an internship and served as a Medical Officer in Cape Town from 2008 to 2012. He earned his MBChB from South Africa in 2010. Dr. Bau pursued his registrarship and achieved the Fellowship of the College of Paediatrics (FCPaed) from 2012 to 2015, and obtained his Master of Medicine (MMed) from the University of Cape Town in 2015.
Since 2015, Dr. Bau has been working as a paediatrician at LPPH. He further advanced his expertise with postgraduate degrees in nutrition, completed in Boston, USA, in 2018, and Perth, Australia, in 2019.
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Mrs. Mirjam Bauleth
Technical Procurement Officer at Namibia Institute of Pathology (NIP) LtdA Medical Technologist currently working as Technical Procurement Officer at Namibia Institute of Pathology. She has a BSc Biomedical Sciences, PG Diploma in Clinical Research and MSc in Medical Pharmacology, MBA in Management strategy. Powered by her passion for advancing healthcare through research and innovation, she is currently pursuing a PhD in Medical Microbiology at University of Namibia through the Trials of Excellence in Southern Africa (TESA) -TAGENDI funded fellowship with a special focus on antimicrobial testing and medicinal plants. On a part-time basis, she lectures Pharmacology to Nursing students at Welwitchia University, participates in curriculum development as well as a Medical Technology evaluator for the HPCNA. As an advocate for continuous development she has enrolled in a number of professional development courses such Leadership and Management in Health, GCLP, GCP and attended a number of conference including Africa Society for Laboratory Medicine 2023.
Dr Vivian Chan Li
Emergency SpecialistDr. Vivian Li is an Emergency Medicine Specialist with training from Temple University in Philadelphia, USA. She is currently the Advanced Emergency Ultrasound Fellow at Boston Medical Center and responsible for teaching POCUS to Emergency Medicine trainees and medical students. Dr. Li has a deep passion for global health education initiatives, with experience training physicians in POCUS in Mexico and Kurdistan.
Mr. Hendrick L. P. Hedimbi
Laboratory Manager/Senior Medical Technologist at Namdeb Private HospitalMr. Hendrick Hedimbi is an accomplished professional with a Bachelor's degree in Biomedical Sciences from the Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST), a Postgraduate Diploma in Health Information System Management from NUST, and is currently pursuing an MBA in Healthcare Management at Unicaf University Zambia.
With a solid track record of over six years in the medical laboratory field, Hedimbi has honed his expertise in laboratory management and operations. Currently serving as the Laboratory Manager for Namdeb Private Laboratory, he oversees all daily functions, ensuring the highest standards of practice and compliance.
Beyond his managerial role, Hedimbi holds the prestigious position of President of the Namibia Association of Medical Laboratory Sciences (NAMLS). His leadership in this association underscores his commitment to advancing the medical laboratory sciences in Namibia, fostering professional development, and championing the interests of laboratory professionals. Hedimbi's educational background and professional achievements exemplify his unwavering dedication to the healthcare sector and his strong drive to enhance health management systems.
Dr. Albertina M Iitana
Senior Anatomical Pathology Consultant at Northern Pathology Servies ccDr. Albertina M. Iitana is a Senior Consultant in Anatomical Pathology, renowned for her expertise in surgical pathology, cytology, and autopsies within both private and public healthcare sectors. She is actively involved in academic presentations and leads multidisciplinary meetings on clinical pathologic correlations and patient management. A dedicated educator, Dr. Iitana lectures undergraduate students and is a founding pathologist with substantial experience in managing pathology business operations.
Since September 2016, Dr. Iitana has served as the Consultant Anatomical Pathologist and Managing Director of NorthDr Pathology Services, providing strategic leadership and clinical oversight. Previously, she was a Consultant Anatomical Pathologist at the Namibia Institute of Pathology (NIP) from December 2010 to August 2016. Her early career with the Ministry of Health and Social Services (MOHSS) included roles at Katutura and Windhoek Central Complex hospitals, where she worked in various departments such as Casualty, Anesthesia, Obstetrics and Gynecology, and Psychiatric Hospitals. She also contributed to public health during a malaria campaign at Engela and Eenhana State Hospitals.
Dr. Iitana's commitment to professional development is demonstrated by her participation in numerous national and international academic congresses from 2007 to 2020. She holds an MMed in Anatomical Pathology from Stellenbosch University, where she conducted research on Conjunctival Squamous Cell Carcinoma in HIV Positive Namibian Patients, and a medical degree from the Carlos J Finlay Medical College of Camaguey, Cuba. Her extensive experience and dedication to pathology make her a respected professional and educator in the medical community.
Ms. Ligamena Kakoma
Medical Laboratory Scientist at Namibia Institute of Pathology (NIP) LtdLigamena Kakoma, a 30-year-old Namibian, is a dedicated Medical Laboratory Scientist with extensive experience in Microbiology and Molecular Diagnostics at the Namibia Institute of Pathology. She was part of the first cohort to conduct COVID-19 testing in Namibia and HIV drug resistance testing. She also oversaw laboratory services for the NAMPHIA project, assessing HIV impact nationwide. With a Master’s in HIV/AIDS Management and a Bachelor’s in Biomedical Science, Ligamena is committed to advancing healthcare. Passionate about self-development and philanthropy, she organizes Christmas fundraisers for orphanages and children with cancer. A published scientist, she enjoys travelling, reading, and scientific writing. Ligamena believes in playing an active role in improving healthcare accessibility in Namibia, driven by her environment and upbringing. She continues to study and develop her understanding to contribute more effectively to both local and global health sectors, striving for a holistic quality of life for all.
Dr. Ruben Kanime
Chairperson of the Executive Board at Namibia Medical Society
Mr. Willem Kamutuva Kanyondi
Clinical Quality Controller at Ongwediva Medipark (Pty) Ltd.Willem Kanyondi holds an Honours degree in Nursing Sciences from the University of Namibia. He is currently pursuing a Master's of Arts in International Healthcare Management at IU International University of Applied Sciences in Germany.
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Dr. Sithembile MTOMBENI
Emergency Physician at Dr MtombeniDr. Sithembile Mtombeni, Lecturer at the University of Namibia in Health Sciences, is an Emergency Medicine Specialist and graduate of the Cape Town Emergency Medicine training program. She is an EMSSA ePOCUS certified instructor and co-founder of HealthGate Medical, a medical training company. Dr. Mtombeni has over 20 years of experience working throughout rural hospitals Namibia and knows first-hand the benefit of POCUS to patient care.
Dr. Celestine B Mbangtang
ASG at COSECSAMM
Mrs Ndahafa Mpako
Namibia Institute of Pathology (NIP) LtdMM
Mr. Joseph Mudjuu
Deputy Director Information Technology Management of Ministry of Health & Social ServicesMM
Ms Waltraud Munkanda
Acting Deputy Director-Wellness Division of Ministry of Health & Social Services
Dr. Akutu Munyika
MD & Specialist Surgeon at Ondangwa Private HospitalDr Munyika is a patient-focused Specialist Surgeon, who provides high-quality, personalized healthcare to patients in the clinical environments. A savvy business mind is coupled with recognized surgical skills, spanning over ten years of experience. He has a warm, caring approach to patients and is persistent in finding the best treatment options available. He is the Managing Director of Ondangwa Private Hospital, one of the private hospitals located in the northern part of Namibia. He is a former Medical Superintendent of Onandjokwe Intermediate Hospital, where he still works as a part time Specialist Surgeon. His area of interest is in Minimal Access Surgery as well as clinical research.
Dr Munyika served on the board of the Namibian Medical Society (NMS), Health Professional Council of Namibia (HPCNA), and is currently a board member of the Namibian Surgical Society (NSS) as well as Namibia National Reinsurance Corporation (NAMIBRE). He is also an Adjunct Lecturer in the Surgery Department at the UNAM School of Medicine.
Dr. Munyika obtained his MBCHB at the University of Cape Town in 2006. He joined the department of Surgery at the University of Zimbabwe at the end of 2009 and obtained his master’s in general surgery in 2013. Dr. Munyika attended several minimal access surgery trainings, including but not limited to IRCAD France (Strasburg), World Laparoscopic Hospital (India—New Delhi), as well as laparoscopic short courses in South Africa. He is a fellow of the American College of Surgeon (ACS), as well as a fellow of the College of Surgeons of East, Central and Southern Africa (COSECSA).
Dr. Djeimo Mwanyekele
Medical Intern at Intermediate Hospital - OshakatiDjeimo is a fun individual who mostly enjoys following topics around trends and innovative concepts.
Unrelated to that, as he moves into the next chapter of his medical career as an intern, he’d love to do so with a vision to touch lives by contributing towards the betterment of cancer therapy in his community. From screening, diagnosis, and treatment, all the way to palliative care. This has always been his goal from day one in medical school where he founded a youth cancer organisation on campus to offer psychosocial support to cancer patients in Windhoek.
He enjoys doing what he does because it’s an extension of who he is.
In his Communications role at the African Pathfinder Leaders Initiative, he executes online and offline marketing strategies, prepares social media campaigns for the events that APLI organises and creates various compelling and real-time content for the audience.
He enjoys writing for the media in his personal capacity on topics relating to health.
MS. MARIA TULONGA NIIMWENE
LECTURER at IUMMaria Tulonga Niimwene is a dedicated academic and a PhD candidate currently in her second year at the International University of Management (IUM). She also serves as a lecturer at IUM, where she imparts her knowledge and expertise to the next generation of scholars. Her commitment to education is evident in her dual roles as both a student and a lecturer, reflecting her passion for continuous learning and academic excellence.
Ms. Niimwene’s research pursuits and teaching responsibilities highlight her dedication to advancing knowledge and contributing to the academic community. Her journey in higher education is characterized by determination and ambition, to inspire and educate others while striving to achieve her academic objectives.
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Ms Hilma Naimbale
Senior Legal Officer at Ministry of Health & Social Services
Dr. Mwangala Nalisa
Lecturer at University of NamibiaDr Mwangala Nalisa is currently a lecturer at the University Namibia, Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Biotechnology. She has over 14 years of progressive experience in research and policy formulation in agriculture, health, and innovation and has worked in multidisciplinary and multicultural teams. Her writing skills include scientific peer-reviewed articles, policy documents, and science communication reports.
She holds a bachelor’s degree in Molecular Biology & Chemistry, a Master of Science degree in Applied Microbiology from the University of Namibia, a Master of Plant Biotechnology through the UNIDO online program on Biosafety of genetically modified plants and a PhD in Health Sciences from the University of the Witwatersrand.
For her PhD thesis, she dealt with immune responses in acute pancreatitis and its role in predicting disease severity. Her research interests include Biomarker discovery in noncommunicable diseases and antimicrobial resistance particularly identifying genes that confer fitness. She is skilled in molecular biology techniques (DNA and RNA extraction and real-time PCR), flow cytometry (multicolour panels and protein assays) and multiplex assays.
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Dr. Hilma Nangombe
Deputy Director Research Ethics and Coordination of Ministry of Health & Social Services
Dr. Marcel Didier Ndayishyigikiye
Senior Consultant Neurosurgeon at Windhoek Neurosurgical CentreDr. Ndayishyigikiye obtained his Medical Degree (M.D) Cum Laude from the University of Rwanda in 2008. After completing his community service in local district hospitals, he undertook his specialisation in Neurosurgery at the University of The Witwatersrand (Wits), Johannesburg, SA under Prof. Rasik Gopal and Prof. John R. Ouma, ultimately becoming a Fellow of the College of Neurosurgeons of South Africa in 2016. He thereafter completed the Arab Spine Course Diploma in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, and the prestigious Surgical
Leadership Program at Harvard medical school.
Dr. MD Ndayishyigikiye has spent the last eight years in independent neurosurgical private practice, wherr he treats both pediatric and adult neurosurgical conditions focusing mainly on minimally invasive spine surgery, scoliosis correction, endoscopic pituitary surgery, base of skull oncological surgery and trauma and pain management. He is a member of several international and local medical professional bodies, including NASS (North American Spine Society), SASN, and AO Spine. In his free time, he enjoys learning new skills and spending time with his family and friends.
Dr. Saara Neshuku-Nampala
Consultant Neurologist at Intermediate Hospital KatuturaDr. Saara Neshuku-Nampala is a consultant neurologist based in Windhoek, Namibia. She completed her undergraduate education at the University of Pretoria in 2010. Her neurology training was undertaken at the University of Cape Town-Groote Schuur Hospital, where she honed her expertise in the field. Dr Neshuku-Nampala earned a Fellowship from the College of Neurologists of South Africa in May 2019 and subsequently obtained a Master of Medicine from the University of Cape Town in December 2019.
Currently, Dr. Neshuku-Nampala is employed by the Ministry of Health and Social Services, working within the Windhoek Hospital Complexes. In her role, she manages patients with a diverse array of neurological disorders and oversees the work of medical officers and interns. Additionally, she is responsible for the neurophysiology laboratory, which conducts EEGs, nerve conduction studies, and electromyogram (NCS/EMG) procedures.
In her commitment to medical education, Dr. Neshuku-Nampala serves as a part-time lecturer for undergraduate medical students at the School of Medicine, University of Namibia. Her professional interests encompass neuromuscular disorders, stroke care, epilepsy, neuroimmunology, clinical neurophysiology, and the advancement of medical education.
Ms. Jacquiline Ngungu
Clinical Director of Empower Her Recovery CentreJacqueline Waithira is the Clinical Director at Empower Her Recovery Center, based in Kenya.
Dr. Ifeanyi Ofunne
Chief Medical Officer at Ministry of Health & Social ServicesDr. Ifeanyi Ofunne holds an MBBS degree from Nigeria, alongside postgraduate qualifications in Family Medicine. He also possesses a Master of Laws degree (LLM) specializing in Medical Law, a Master of Philosophy (MPhil) in Health Management, and postgraduates in Philosophy (Applied Ethics), all obtained from South Africa. Additionally, he is trained in Health Professions Education.
Currently, Dr. Ofunne serves as a Chief Medical Officer in Namibia, where he acts as a Technical Advisor to the Ministry of Health on Health Policy, Medical Law, and Bioethics. He has also served as a Consultant to the World Health Organization (Namibia). In these roles, Dr. Ofunne has extensively developed guidelines and is recognized for his innovative project introducing the legal and ethical perspective into clinical guideline development. He has also served as an adjunct lecturer on Professional Ethics at the University of Namibia, where he was responsible for curriculum development and training. Dr. Ofunne is accredited by the Health Professions Council of Namibia (HPCNA) to provide training on medical law and ethics.
His ongoing research focuses on pandemic ethics and the intersection between autonomy, patients' rights, and medical practice. An avid critical thinker and philosopher, Dr. Ofunne is keen to share and discuss academic ideas. Beyond his professional pursuits, he enjoys playing video games, enjoys mixing songs with his family in his spare time"., and is a devoted father to his twin children, whom he cherishes deeply.
Dr. Jacob Sheehama
Director at UNAM Hifikepunye Pohamba & Oshakati Campuses of University of Namibia (UNAM)1. Graduated with the Philosophy Doctor (PhD) in Biomedical Sciences at Kazan State University in Russia, 2008
2. High Education Pedagogy Post Graduate Diploma, Kazan State University, 2008
3. Graduated with the Master of Sciences in Medical Microbiology at Kazan State University in Russia, 2005
4. Pre-University Certificate in Natural Sciences and Voronezh state University, Russia, 2000
Post Doctorate Training and Qualifications:
1. Commonwealth Professional Scholarship Award at Cardiff University, UK, 2019‚ strengthening Health systems through training and research
2. UNESCO- Merck at Geneva, Switzerland, 2015 – Africa research capacity empowerment.
3. Postdoctoral Executive professional at Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, USA 2013- Building Design and Engineering Approaches to Airborne Infection Control
4. Management and Leadership Certificate at GiZ and HTV University, Saarland, Germany, 2011 - Health Project Management and Leadership
5. Postdoctoral Certificate; Health Management and Leadership in public health, University of Washington, USA, 2011 - Health Management and Leadership in public health:
Work and Professional Experience:
1. Director University of Namibia HP & Oshakati Campuses 2021‚ to date
2. President of Russian Alumni Association of Namibia 2018‚ to date
3. Deputy Director Academic Affairs and Research; January 2016, to Date, University of Namibia
4. Consultant, WHO: Namibia National TB Infection Prevention and Control Guidelines Review; August‚ September 2020
5. Honorary Senior Lecturer, Cardiff University, UK; June 2020, to date
6. Consultant, WHO: AFRO II Integrated Vector borne diseases Management Project; October 2017, February 2019
7. Coordinator School of Medicine and UNAM Health Sciences Northern Namibia Teaching Hospitals; January 2016 to Date
8. Deputy Associate Dean, University of Namibia; June 2012 - December 2015
9. Senior Lecturer Biomedical Sciences, UNAM School of Medicine; August 2013 - to date
10. Head of Department Medical Microbiology UNAM School of Medicine; January 2012 t- September 2012
11. Lecturer Biomedical Sciences (Medical Biochemistry, Microbiology, Infection Control) UNAM School of Medicine; September 2009, August 2013
Ms. Frieda Shigwedha
Pharmacist at Namibia Medicine Regulatory Council (NMRC)Ms. Frieda Shigwedha is a Medicines Information and Safety Pharmacist at the Therapeutics Information and Pharmacovigilance Center of the Namibia Medicines Regulatory Council under the Ministry of Health and Social Services. She has extensive experience in regulatory affairs, clinical assessment, and pharmacovigilance. Since 2018, Frieda has been actively involved with the Pharmaceutical Society of Namibia (PSN), currently serving as its President and previously as Vice-President. She also serves on the Pharmacy Council of Namibia, contributing to the Education Committee. Frieda has held roles such as Consultant/Assistant Lecturer and holds a Bachelor of Pharmacy (Hons) from the University of Namibia, a Postgraduate Diploma in Health Information Systems Management from NUST, and a Certificate in Dossier Assessment from the University of the Witwatersrand. She is currently enrolled in a Rational Medicine Use Course through the University of the Western Cape and plans to pursue a Master’s in Pharmacy Administration and Regulatory Affairs.
Dr. Panduleni Penipawa Shimanda
Lecturer at International University of ManagementDr. Panduleni P. Shimanda holds a Bachelor of Nursing Science (Clinical) (Honours), an MSc in Public Health with a specialisation in Health Economics, and a PhD in Public Health. With over 10 years of extensive experience in nursing practice, education, and health research, particularly in health economics and epidemiology, he has contributed significantly to academia and consultancies. His expertise includes policy and curriculum development, enhancing healthcare systems through evidence-based approaches.
Dr. Rachel Shing
Assistant Professor at Boston UniversityDr. Rachel Shing is an Emergency Medicine physician with fellowship training in Emergency Clinical Ultrasound and Global Health. Dr. Shing completed her Emergency Medicine Specialist training at the University of California in Los Angeles in the USA. She has extensive experience teaching point-of-care ultrasound and has taught in Haiti, Ghana, Namibia and South Africa. Dr. Shing’s research interests include point-of-care ultrasound use in resource-limited settings and using novel technology to facilitate POCUS education to build POCUS user capacity. Outside of work, she enjoys hiking Table Mountain and visiting wine farms of Cape Town, South Africa, where she and her family are often based.
Dr. Theresia Shivera
Specialist Anaesthetist at Mediclinic SwakopmundDr. Shivera is a specialist anaesthetist currently in private practice. Born in Rundu, Kavango West, in the early 1980s, she completed both her undergraduate and postgraduate training at the University of Cape Town. Dr. Shivera previously served as the Head of the Department of Anaesthesia at Windhoek Central Hospital Complex and was the founding President of the Anaesthesiologists Society of Namibia (ASN).
She is currently involved in various committees, including the Medical and Dental Council (HPCNA), the Namibia National Surgery Obstetric & Anaesthesia Plan (NSOAP), and the SADC Technical Expert Working Group on Surgical Care. Dr. Shivera has a keen interest in Global Surgery and Anaesthesia, Pain Management, and Professional Wellbeing. In addition to her professional pursuits, she is a mother of two energetic toddlers and enjoys yoga and meditation.
Mr. Ntiushya Simfukwe
Medical Student at University of NamibiaNtiushya Simfukwe is a final year MBChB student at the University of Namibia. Driven by curiosity from an early age, he demonstrated great academic promise, skipping several grades ahead in order to stay challenged and stimulated. Soon to be the first doctor within his family, he aims to provide efficient and quality care, whilst simultaneously accumulating knowledge to be shared with other practitioners and future generations.
Dr. Taime Sylvester
Researcher and Educator at University of Namibia (UNAM)Dr. Taime Sylvester is an accomplished researcher and educator with a career spanning over
12 years in the fields of infectious disease immunology, molecular biology, and science
communication. Currently affiliated with the Group for Research in Infectious Diseases at the
University of Namibia, she also serves as a Lecturer in Research Methods at the Namibia
University of Science and Technology and as a Scientific Consultant with Solal Scientific
Solutions.
A highly skilled and meticulous molecular biologist, Dr. Sylvester brings a wealth of expertise
in cellular, bacterial and molecular biology techniques. In addition to her research expertise,
she has extensive experience in lecturing and student mentorship. As a Lecturer in Research
Methods, Dr. Sylvester plays a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of scientists. She
currently supervises 18 students, ranging from Honors to PhD levels, on various aspects related
to Health Sciences research projects that span multiple disciplines. Her mentorship has been
instrumental in developing the students' critical thinking, research skills, and scientific acumen,
thereby fostering a robust learning environment that emphasizes both academic excellence and
practical application, as well as work-balance in their lives.
With a background rooted in laboratory science and immunology, combined with an intrinsic
understanding of the healthcare needs in resource-limited settings like Namibia, Dr. Sylvester
is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of human capital development and innovation in
healthcare.
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Mr Ambrosius Uakurama
Deputy Director – Health Financing of Ministry of Health & Social Services
Dr. Lavinia Uuyuni
Clinical Pathologist at Namibia Institute of Pathology Limited (NIP)Dr Uuyuni, a Clinical Pathologist(NIP) with a diverse knowledge in various discipline including chemical pathology, haematopathology, microbiology & clinical virology.
Her keen interest are in: immunology, endocrinology (more especially diabetes), renal diseases and so forth.
She holds a Medical degree from Saratov State Medical University (Russian Federation) in 2010.
Completed internship at Windhoek/Katutura State Hospitals, then worked as Medical Officer in the Department of Anaesthesiology in Windhoek and then later at Swakopmund State Hospital before enrolling for postgraduate studies at the Stellenbosch University / National Health Laboratory Services (NHLS) working at Tygerberg Hospital in Cape Town in 2015.
Dr Uuyuni obtained her Master of Medicine in Clinical Pathology from the Stellenbosch University as well as a Fellowship of the College of Clinical Pathologists (FC(SA)Path- Clin) at the College of Medicine of South Africa (CMSA). She recently attended the International Federation for Clinical Chemistry &Laboratory Medicine WorldLab Congress 2024.
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Dr. Niel Van Hoving
DrDr. Niel Van Hoving, Senior Lecturer at Stellenbosch University in South Africa, is an Emergency Medicine Specialist and faculty member of the Emergency Medicine Cape Town training program. He is also an Emergency Medicine Society of South Africa emergency POCUS (EMSSA ePOCUS) certified instructor and currently runs the Stellenbosch University POCUS course. Dr. Van Hoving’s research interests include POCUS in the emergency care setting, especially for HIV – associated tuberculosis and clinical epidemiology within the broad field of Emergency Medicine.
The Namibia Medical Society (NMS) cordially invites health and medical researchers, including medical doctors, nurses, biomedical scientists, pathologists, diagnosticians, students, and academics, to submit abstracts for the upcoming annual NMS Scientific Conference. This prestigious event, inaugurated in 2013, serves as a premier platform for sharing practical and research scientific findings and fostering collaborative links between institutions.
Conference Overview
Conference Theme: "Intersecting Frontiers: Advancing Global Healthcare through Research, Economics, & Technology"
Dates: September 5th – 7th, 2024
Venue: Sea Side Hotel & Spa, Swakopmund, Namibia
Hosts: Namibia Medical Society in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Social Services
Objectives of the Conference
· Enhance the role of NMS and Namibia in the global healthcare landscape.
· Promote evidence-based medicine and improve healthcare quality and efficiency.
· Provide a platform for knowledge sharing and professional growth.
Themes for Abstract Submission
We are seeking submissions that align with the following themes:
- Ethics & Evidence-Based Medicine: Explore ethical considerations in modern medical practice and the promotion of evidence-based approaches.
- Healthcare Policy & Planning: Discuss the development of effective health policies and strategic planning for healthcare systems.
- Training Human Resources for Health: Address best practices in medical education and workforce training to meet current and future needs.
- Health Technologies / Telehealth Applications: Present advancements in health technologies and the implementation of telehealth solutions.
- Healthcare Financing & Medical Aids: Examine innovative financing models and the role of medical aids in health systems.
- Recent Advances in Research: Share breakthroughs in medical research and their translational impact on healthcare.
- The Well-being of Healthcare Workers: Focus on addressing burnout, mental health, and creating supportive work environments for healthcare professionals.
Important Dates
Deadline for Abstract Submission: July 31, 2024
Notification of Acceptance: August 5, 2024
Final Program Announcement: August 6, 2024
Conference Dates: September 5th – 7th, 2024
Abstract Submission Guidelines
- Language: All abstracts must be in English.
- Word Limit: Maximum of 300 words.
- Format: Submitted in MS Word (Times New Roman or Arial, size 11).
- Content: Include the title, author(s), affiliation, keywords (not more than 5), and indicate the relevant theme.
- Submission: Submit your abstract online via the Google form by clicking here.
Submission Process
1. Prepare Your Abstract: Ensure it meets the format and content guidelines.
2. Submit Online: Access the Google form submission link here.
3. Review and Confirmation: You will receive a confirmation email upon successful submission.
4. Acceptance Notification: Authors will be notified of acceptance by August 5, 2024.
Participation Benefits
- Professional Recognition: Present your research to a distinguished audience of healthcare professionals and stakeholders.
- Networking Opportunities: Connect with peers, industry leaders, and policymakers to foster collaborative relationships.
- Publication Opportunities: Selected abstracts may be published in the NMS conference proceedings or affiliated journals.
- Awards and Acknowledgements: Outstanding abstracts and presentations will be recognized during the Gala Dinner & Award Giving Ceremony.
Contact Information
For further details and inquiries, please contact:
NMS Secretariat
Email: nms@iway.na
Phone: +264-81 635 1448
Website: www.nms.com.na