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Nineteen people were hospitalized on Friday after allegedly consuming Sikundu, a traditional fermented drink, at Mavanze village in the Kavango West Region.
Regional Police Commissioner Julia Sakuwa-Neo confirmed the incident, reporting that the group began experiencing severe vomiting and diarrhea shortly after drinking the Sikundu, which is typically made from maize meal.
“All 19 victims were rushed to Rundu State Hospital for urgent medical care. While 17 have since been reported in stable condition, an elderly pensioner remains in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). However, medical staff have noted gradual signs of recovery in the patient,” Commissioner Sakuwa-Neo stated.
Later that evening, a mentally ill resident from the same village was also admitted to Rundu State Hospital, where he was stabilized.
Preliminary police investigations have ruled out any possibility of deliberate poisoning. Authorities noted that the individual who prepared Sikundu was also among those affected.
Health officials are continuing to investigate the cause of the illness.