Allexer Namundjembo
The Namibia Nurses Union (Nanu) has warned against the growing practice of members of the public taking photos and videos inside clinics and hospitals.
On Tuesday, the union issued a statement claiming that these recordings often circulate online as purported evidence of subpar service.
It said the practice violates privacy and disrupts healthcare environments.
“Our primary concern is that such actions are carried out without due regard for the fundamental rights to privacy and human dignity of both patients and healthcare workers,” the union said.
Nanu said public healthcare settings require confidentiality and respect.
It said unauthorised recordings can affect care and weaken trust in health services.
The union called on the Ministry of Health and Social Services to introduce measures to protect patients and healthcare workers.
The issue comes as discussions continue about conditions in public health facilities.
In parliament last year, member of parliament Winnie Moongo said pressure on clinics and hospitals may affect patient care and confidentiality.
Her motion called for stronger regulation of nursing training institutions.
In 2025, then member of parliament Elma Dienda asked the ministry about policies on phone use in hospitals.
This inquiry followed a restriction on phone use at Oshakati Intermediate Hospital during working hours.
In the same year, then health minister Kalumbi Shangula launched a customer service charter.
The charter calls on healthcare workers to maintain professionalism and treat patients with respect.
The union noted that limited privacy during consultations can affect trust in health services.
