Discover rural Namibia through a medical internship rooted in learning, service and cultural connection.
Medical Internship in Namibia
SAVE’s Namibian medical project is situated in Epukiro, in the remote eastern region of Omaheke. The clinic provides high-quality health care to the local San community, almost 3,500 patients every year. Of these, 40% are children and babies, and more than 90% are San. As well as provide primary care, they also transport patients to the hospital 12km away; without this service, typically the local people wouldn’t go and remain untreated.
Research has shown that the San have a 15 times higher chance of catching TB than other tribes nearby. Due to the lack of access to healthcare, this often goes undiagnosed and therefore; untreated.
The aim is to increase the area of reach and be able to address the spread of TB more proactively. The clinic is quite literally a lifeline for thousands of San Bushman and consists of a clinic manager, one nurse, one receptionist, and four translators. They are in desperate need of resources, funding and above all else, more staff as they are the lifeblood of the Clinic.
What You Will Do
Your medical internship in Namibia is designed to give you meaningful exposure to community healthcare while supporting the work of an established rural clinic. Your exact activities will depend on your level of study, previous experience, the needs of the clinic and local healthcare regulations. Your role will always be guided by your qualifications, experience and the clinic’s requirements. Interns are not expected to perform procedures they are not trained or authorised to carry out.
Observe healthcare professionals
during consultations and routine clinic activities.
Support appropriate non-clinical tasks
that help the clinic operate effectively.
Assist with community health education
and awareness initiatives where suitable.
Learn about rural healthcare delivery
and the challenges of providing care across remote areas.
Participate in community outreach activities
clinic administration and local healthcare systems.
What level of medical training do I need?
The placement is open to pre-medical students, medical students at any stage, qualified nurses, and practising healthcare professionals. Teaching is tailored to your background. First and second-year medical students will focus on observation and basic clinical support. More advanced students may take on greater responsibility for patient assessment and research under qualified supervision.
Will this count towards my medical school clinical hours?
SAVE Foundation provides a supervisor evaluation report, clinical log template, and completion certificate — documentation compatible with VMCAS, UCAS, and most international medical school requirements. Confirm specific requirements with your faculty before departure.
What diseases and conditions will I encounter?
Tuberculosis is the dominant burden, followed by malnutrition-related conditions, diabetes, hypertension, respiratory infections, and HIV. You will encounter a healthcare reality that is radically different from what most Western medical training prepares you for — and more valuable for that.
What is the language situation at the clinic?
The clinical team works in Afrikaans, English, and local languages. Four translators are present at the clinic at all times. Clinical work with San Bushmen patients is conducted through translation — an important skill in itself, and one that requires patience and cultural sensitivity.
What are the visa requirements for Namibia?
From April 2025, Namibia requires an online visa-on-arrival application for most nationalities. A fee of N$1,600 applies. Full visa guidance is provided on placement confirmation. Always check the expiry date on your visitor permit before leaving the immigration counter at Windhoek International Airport.
Is the project cashless?
Yes. As of June 2025, the Naankuse Wildlife Sanctuary operates a fully cashless system. All on-site payments are by card only. ATMs are available in Gobabis on the way to the clinic or at the airport on arrival.