Patient Safety: Windhoek Central Hospital marked World Patient Safety Day with a focus on “Safe Care for Non-communicable Diseases,” warning that misdiagnosis, wrong medication and weak safety practices still drive preventable harm. Mental Health: A new column on suicide prevention urges Namibians to talk carefully when someone is struggling, stressing that many people are trying to end pain, not their lives. GBV Protection Orders: Legal experts warn that fast-tracked protection orders for gender-based violence could be abused if safeguards aren’t built in, especially when interim orders are issued without the respondent being heard. Tobacco Control: Namibia’s proposed tobacco amendments are debated as a health priority, but businesses and advocates also call for strong enforcement so restrictions don’t leave loopholes for illicit products. Water & Health Risks: Otjihanameva’s prolonged water shortage in Erongo is raising urgent health and safety concerns as residents reportedly travel long distances for water. Cuba Health Under Pressure: Namibia raised N$2.6m for Cuba’s healthcare needs amid sanctions, with reports of long surgical waiting lists and shortages affecting children and elderly patients. Local Health Capacity: UNAM Katima Campus hosts a wellness week, while Merck Foundation highlights that sustainable cancer care depends on building specialized healthcare professionals, not just equipment. Identity & Access to Services: The home affairs ministry says minors are the next priority for identity registration, linking documentation gaps to access to services including health care.