By: Kleopas Nghikefelwa
As we gear up for the Christmas holiday, let me share a brief story about the pioneering journey of the first medical doctor to grace the Namibian medical field.
On December 14, 1908, Dr. Selma Rainio arrived in Oniipa, leaving an indelible mark on the community.
In the beginning, the local people perceived her as a “White (Onganga) traditional healer,” given their reliance on traditional healing practices.
At that time, modern medical science, with its understanding of diseases caused by bacteria and viruses, was largely unknown to the Namibian people.
Namibians held strong beliefs in the supernatural, attributing illnesses to curses, witchcraft, or divine displeasure.
The lack of information about modern medicine and inadequate healthcare services exacerbated the challenges faced by the sick.
Enter Dr. Selma Rainio (1873 – 1939), the trailblasing first woman medical doctor in Namibia. Dr. Rainio transformed the medical landscape by introducing affordable and modern healthcare services to the local population.
Her presence instilled confidence in the community, fostering a belief in the merits of modern medical science.
Driven by her dedication to healing, Dr. Rainio attracted a surge of local patients to the Oniipa Mission station. Recognising the need for a dedicated medical facility, she proposed and championed the construction of Onandjokwe hospital.
With the skilled supervision of “Omuhongi” Nestor Wananen, Onandjokwe hospital opened its doors on July 9, 1911, marking the inception of one of Namibia’s oldest hospitals.
To this day, Onandjokwe hospital stands as a testament to Dr. Rainio’s legacy, having celebrated its 111th anniversary on July 9, 2022.
December 14 holds particular significance as the day Namibia welcomed its first medical doctor.
Dr. Rainio’s influence extended beyond her lifetime, inspiring missionaries and Namibian women to volunteer in the medical field as nurses.
Her commitment earned her the nickname “Gwanandjokwe” among the locals, a testament to her enduring service at Onandjokwe hospital.
On January 5, 1938, Dr. Selma Rainio passed away, laid to rest with profound respect in the Oniitewa old cemetery behind Onandjokwe State hospital.
Her name lives on, resonating in northern Namibia and beyond. The Dr. Selma Rainio Medical Centre, located in Onandjokwe hospital at Oniipa, pays tribute to her enduring legacy.
As we honour December 14, let us remember and appreciate the pivotal role played by Dr. Rainio and others in shaping Namibia’s medical landscape.
Special thanks to the Onandjokwe Medical Museum for preserving the rich history of Onandjokwe and Dr. Selma Rainio.
May this historical account inspire present and future generations in Namibia to pursue careers in medicine and dedicate themselves to serving the public with excellence.
Dr. Rainio’s history and legacy are meticulously documented at the Onandjokwe Medical Museum.
Note: This column reflects the author’s personal perspective and does not necessarily represent the opinion of the editorial board or The Villager and its owners.
Kleopas Nghikefelwa is a Museum Activist
Email: kleopasn@gmail.com
