APGAR Maternity Hospital’s approach to safe, compassionate care
Sister Nathalia Nancy Shiweda is a University of Namibia (Unam)-trained registered nurse, entrepreneur and co-founder of APGAR Maternity Hospital in Windhoek.
The facility focuses exclusively on maternal, neonatal and gynaecological care and was officially inaugurated in October 2024 by former health minister Dr Kalumbi Shangula.
The idea for the hospital was first developed in 2016 by Shiweda and Dr Emmanuel Tom.
Shiweda said the hospital’s mission from the outset was to provide safe, timely and high-quality maternity care, while ensuring dignity, efficiency and compassion for every mother and baby.
She added that maternity care was chosen because of its direct and lasting impact.
“Maternity care is one of the most impactful areas of healthcare,” she said. “Improving maternity services directly reduces maternal and neonatal deaths and strengthens families and communities.”
The hospital’s work aligns with global health goals aimed at reducing maternal and newborn mortality by 2030, she noted.
All under one roof
APGAR Maternity Hospital offers comprehensive services that many expecting parents are not aware of.
“We provide complete maternity and newborn care under one roof,” Shiweda said.
Services include antenatal care, delivery, postnatal support and neonatal care, allowing families to receive continuous care throughout the entire maternity journey in a safe and respectful environment.
A significant milestone for the institution was the birth of its 50th baby in August 2025.
Shiweda described the moment as meaningful, noting that it reflected growing trust from the community and reaffirmed the hospital’s commitment to safe and compassionate maternity care.
When asked to describe the spirit of the nursing staff, Shiweda used three words: “Dedicated, compassionate and steadfast.”
Ensuring access to care remains a priority for the institution. “We strongly believe that financial limitations should never prevent a mother or newborn from receiving essential care,” Shiweda said.
The hospital supports underinsured and vulnerable patients through flexible payment arrangements, reduced-cost services, and the prioritisation of essential care. It is also engaging medical aid funds to explore ways of accommodating members on lower medical aid schemes.
Clinically, APGAR Maternity Hospital is equipped to provide Level I and Level II neonatal care, enabling the facility to manage routine newborn needs.
