Tragedy Strikes in Namibia: Suspected Food Poisoning Claims Lives of Two Children
In a devastating incident, two young children, aged three and four, lost their lives to suspected food poisoning in Korokoko Village, Namibia. The tragedy has sent shockwaves through the community, prompting Kavango East Governor Hamunyera Hambyuka to call for a collective and collaborative approach to address the rising incidents of food poisoning in the region.
The incident occurred on Sunday, when the children consumed cassava roots at their home, prepared by their mother. Preliminary investigations revealed that the entire family had eaten the same food, but it was the two children and one adult who began experiencing weakness and vomiting nine to 10 hours later. Despite efforts to save them, the children succumbed to their condition, one after the other.
Governor Hambyuka, addressing a press conference, expressed his deep concern and urged the community to work together with law enforcement, traditional leaders, and political leaders to prevent such incidents. "Namibia cannot afford to lose precious lives of children who might one day become productive citizens contributing to the development of the country," he emphasized. The governor also requested health inspectors to visit all food outlets to ensure that expired food items are not being sold, in an effort to prevent similar tragedies.
The family of the deceased children is currently receiving psychosocial support from a social worker at the Ministry of Health and Social Services. Three other household members who consumed the same cassava roots are being treated at Nyangana District Hospital and are in a stable condition.
This incident is not an isolated one, as Governor Hambyuka pointed out. There have been similar occurrences in the region, including incidents at Kayova Village, Livayi Village, and Ndonga Linena Village, all of which resulted in the loss of young lives. The governor is determined to get to the root of the problem and has urged the community to cooperate with the investigating team. "I am hopeful that those responsible for this crime will be brought to book and face the full wrath of the law," he said.
As the community mourns the loss of these young lives, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for vigilance and collective action to prevent such tragedies. The safety and well-being of all Namibians, regardless of their social status, is a top priority for the government, and it is imperative that everyone works together to ensure that incidents of food poisoning are discouraged and prevented.
