#BeFree Building Communities: Empower Through Health

On 7 June 2025, the #BeFreeCares Clinic, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Social Services of Namibia, the Namibia Planned Parenthood Association (NAPPA), and the Walvis Bay Corridor Group, hosted the “#BeFree Building Communities: Empower Through Health”, a large-scale health outreach event at Akaduku Soccer Field, Okahandja Park, Windhoek.

This health outreach brought essential healthcare services directly to one of Windhoek’s most underserved communities, making healthcare more accessible to over 1,400 residents of Okahandja Park and the surrounding areas. More than 500 individuals accessed free health services during the event, which included HIV testing, health education, contraceptives, PrEP & PEP, psycho-social support, and more. Community members also engaged with educational booths, youth-driven performances, and family-friendly wellness activities.

The event was attended by key dignitaries who highlighted the importance of community-led healthcare initiatives. Hon. Christopher Likuwa, Tobias Hainyeko Constituency Councillor, delivered the official welcoming remarks, praising the Foundation’s approach to empowering local communities through access to healthcare. “To our young people and the entire Okahandja Park community you are not just beneficiaries of this event, you are its heartbeat.” He stated.

Mrs. Taimi Amaambo, Deputy Executive Director of the Ministry of Health and Social Services: Regional Health & Social Welfare Services emphasised that accessible health services are essential for young people to unlock their potential. “When a young girl can access contraception, she can stay in school. When a young man knows his HIV status, he can plan his future. When mental health is prioritised, communities are more resilient, more productive, and more hopeful,” she said.

Dr. Veronica Theron, Director of Health and Wellness at the One Economy Foundation, spoke about the importance of trauma-informed, youth-centered, and stigma-free sexual and reproductive health services. She explained that the #BeFree Cares Clinic is not just a healthcare unit, but a promise that quality care is accessible regardless of a person’s income or postcode. The event also offered youth-driven performances, educational booths, and wellness activities, giving young people the opportunity to engage with health education and community empowerment.

One of the residents, 22-year-old Anatolia Norbet, expressed her gratitude for the event, highlighting how much easier it made accessing healthcare without the burden of travel costs.

Local entrepreneur Cecily Afrikaner, who sold food products at the event, shared how the outreach allowed her to raise funds to restart her small business, empowering her economically while also supporting the community. The #BeFree initiative went beyond health services by helping local entrepreneurs thrive and fostering economic growth within the community.

In total, 193 people received general health check-ups, while more than 300 individuals accessed various health services, with HIV testing and treatment being among the most sought-after services.

Rachel Iyambo, Manager of the #BeFree Cares Clinic, expressed her gratitude for the high turnout and underscored the importance of outreach programs in addressing the health needs of underserved communities.

In addition to physical health services, the clinic also offered psychosocial support. Clinical Psychologist Gregorius Amadhila assured attendees that they would receive care in a safe, judgment-free environment. The event also saw the valuable collaboration of health partners like the Walvis Bay Corridor Group and NAPPA, who provided services such as Family Planning, Health Education, HIV Testing, PrEP & PEP, and condom demos, making healthcare more accessible to the community.

The #BeFree Building Communities event demonstrated the significant impact of community-based healthcare by providing free, accessible services that not only addressed immediate health needs but also promoted long-term health education. The initiative empowered community members to make informed decisions about their well-being, and it reflected the Foundation’s commitment to providing high-quality care for all individuals, regardless of their background.

With over 1400 residents benefiting from the event and inspiring stories like Anatolia’s and Cecily’s, the #BeFree Building Communities: Empower Through Health outreach stands as a testament to the power of healthcare in building stronger, more resilient communities.

Together, we’re making healthcare accessible, one community at a time.