Late Hamata the quintessential civil servant: Geingob

“Being one of the first black medical doctors in northern Namibia, he could have easily opened a private practice since the 70 s and earn immense income. Instead, his mindset was selflessly set on safeguarding the health, growth and overall wellbeing of the rural communities in Namibia who could not afford expensive medical care, “Geingob said.

WINDHOEK,18 MAR (NAMPA) – President Hage Geingob has described the late Dr Naftali Hamata as the quintessential civil servant, adding he could be termed the civil servants’ civil servant.

Hamata died on 01 March at Ongwediva Medipark at the age of 78.

Geingob on Friday at Ongwediva during the memorial service of Hamata said the late doctor did not only serve people as a profession but made serving the people his first priority and passion without regarding his own wellbeing.

“Being one of the first black medical doctors in northern Namibia, he could have easily opened a private practice since the 70s and earn immense income. Instead, his mindset was selflessly set on safeguarding the health, growth and overall wellbeing of the rural communities in Namibia who could not afford expensive medical care,” Geingob said.

He continued that Hamata’s life demonstrated the type of model professional that is required in Namibia to spearhead national development.

“One who does not put his or her needs first, but derives immense fulfilment from first attending to and solving the challenges facing the citizens.”

The late gynaecologist graduated with a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery in 1977 from the University of Natal (now University of Kwa-Zulu Natal) and started working at the Onandjokwe Lutheran Hospital.

He later returned to the university to further his studies to specialise in gynaecology and obstetrics.

Some of the capacities he served in was as Medical Superintendent at the Oshakati State Hospital, Special Advisor to the Minister of Health, World Health Organisation Consultant on Medical Equipment in Namibia, and Chairperson of the Indira Gandhi Health Centre.

Geingob acknowledged Hamata’s invaluable contribution to the freedom of Namibia and the upliftment of her people.

“His self-sacrificing and passionate public service, sense of justice, professional integrity and dedication will serve as an inspirational example for future generations to emulate,” he said.

Hamata was accorded a State funeral.

(NAMPA)

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