Father of Four Fights for Life After Workplace Electric Shock, Community Seeks Support

Gabriel Teofelus, a 29-year-old father of four, is currently fighting for his life in the Oshakati Intermediate Hospital following a tragic workplace accident that occurred on November 26 in Oshikuku, Omusati region. Teofelus was shocked by electricity while working atop a building, an incident that has left him with severe burns and in immense pain. From his hospital bed, Teofelus shared the harrowing details of his accident, revealing that his body is extensively burned, save for his head. He recounted the moment it happened: while carrying a metal object, it came into contact with an electrical wire, resulting in catastrophic injuries. “I cannot walk, stand, or sit up,” he lamented, tears streaming down his face as he expressed his deep concern for his four children, who now face an uncertain future without their primary breadwinner. Teofelus has been a diligent employee at Okapyala Trading CC for over five years, known for his hard work and welding skills that have brought clients to the company. His employer, Helungi Petrus, described Teofelus as an invaluable asset to the business and expressed the challenges the company now faces in his absence. “Since he got injured, the productivity of our company has slowed down,” Petrus stated, emphasizing the quality of service Teofelus consistently delivered. However, amidst his physical suffering, Teofelus has voiced dissatisfaction with the medical care he has received. He claims that the hospital staff have been unkind, alleging that they handle his bed roughly and have only provided him with pain relief in the form of Panado tablets. These claims have been strongly refuted by Dr. Ruben Kanime, the medical superintendent at Oshakati Hospital, who stated that Teofelus has received comprehensive care since his admission, including a range of medications aimed at alleviating his pain. Dr. Kanime also addressed the operational challenges within the hospital, explaining that uneven floors in some corridors complicate the movement of beds, which can lead to discomfort for patients. Amid the uncertainty of his recovery, Teofelus’ family is seeking better medical options, including a potential transfer to a private hospital or even treatment abroad for a kidney transplant, a necessity stemming from his injuries. Financial constraints, however, threaten to hinder their efforts. Health executive director Ben Nangombe has informed the family about a special fund established to assist patients needing treatment outside of public hospitals, encouraging them to approach the relevant offices for support. Teofelus' sister, Secilia Shiwedha, highlighted the dire situation, emphasizing that her brother’s income was vital for the family's survival. “He doesn’t like hunger. He is a real hustler,” she expressed, underlining the immediate struggles the family faces in the wake of this tragic incident. As Teofelus battles for his life, the community is left to ponder the implications of workplace safety and the support systems available for those affected by such devastating accidents. The hope remains that through medical intervention and community support, Teofelus can overcome this harrowing chapter and return to his family and work.