Aims: The study aimed at assessing cross-border health measures to combat the importation of infectious diseases between Namibia and its interacting countries.
Study Design: An exploratory, descriptive qualitative
research design was employed.
Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted at
Walvisbay Port Health Services unit between July 2020 and December 2021.
Methodology: A total of fifteen (15) key informant
interviews (9 female and 6 male age range 20 to 50 years); three (3) focus
group discussions (19 female and 9 males; age range 20 to above 50 years) were
purposively interviewed until saturation was achieved. In addition,
participants’ observation was included in the data collection exercise. Data
were thematically analysed with ATLAS.ti version-9 software.
Results: A broad range of cross-border health measures are
implemented at Walvis Bay. Four main themes namely, cross-border preparedness
and response capacities required at entry points; measures to strengthen
cross-border health measures; preparedness and response measures in place to
combat the importation of diseases, and lastly, adherence to preparedness and
response measures emanated from the study. Additionally, the study found that
intensified collaborative efforts are required to implement cross-border health
measures. Budgetary constraints limit the implementation of border health
capacities despite the availability of staff, minimum operational capacities,
and legal framework on health measures.
Conclusion: Cross-border health measures require a
multi-sectoral approach, but obstacles like lack of agreements, operational
plans, and joint exercises contribute to infectious disease importation.
Additionally, it is crucial to review and update health frameworks, considering
the dynamic socio-economic and political contexts. It is essential to engage
local communities in developing culturally sensitive health measures to enhance
cross-border preparedness and to ensure that entry points are well-equipped for
future health crises. Prioritizing border health capacities and collaboration
efforts is recommended.
Author (s) Details
Mwakondja Alisa
Jeomba
Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Health and Applied Sciences,
Namibia University of Science and Technology, Windhoek, Namibia.
Roswitha Mahalie
Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Health and Applied Sciences,
Namibia University of Science and Technology, Windhoek, Namibia.
Jomin George
Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Health and Applied Sciences,
Namibia University of Science and Technology, Windhoek, Namibia.
Please see the book here:- https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/dhrni/v7/2209
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