Projects

In September 2024, Hilma Nakambale, funded by Pure Earth, conducted a study of lead in paint in Windhoek, the capital of Namibia. The study revealed that paint samples from two out of seven paint brands contained high levels of lead (greater than 90 ppm). Of the 20 samples collected, three samples from two paint brands contained lead concentration between 150–1300 ppm.

The Namibian government prioritizes the reduction of lead exposure, working towards protecting the well-being of its population, especially children. However, there are currently no laws and regulations on the concentration of lead in the paints on the market. Nevertheless, several international reports have included Namibia among countries that have made substantial efforts to raise awareness about the dangers of lead paint and promote safe practices, such as proper maintenance and removal of lead-based paint from the market.

At present, the Ministry of Health focuses its inspections on occupational lead exposure in industrial settings. Namibia may benefit from adopting a lead elimination policy, similar to the one currently underway in South Africa.

Acknowledgement: This study was conducted by Hilma Nakambale, a PhD student at the University of Washington, with funding support from Pure Earth, technical assistance from Charlotte Potts of the Lead Exposure Elimination Project (LEEP), and facility support from the University of Namibia.