Windhoek — The Minister of Education, Dr Abraham Iyambo, yesterday dismissed as untrue a report that he was hospitalised in Cuba recently.

Contrary to the report under the headline "Iyambo hospitalized in Cuba" quoting anonymous sources, the minister confirmed that he was in Cuba on vacation, where he also used the opportunity to go for a routine medical check-up.

Cuban doctors are reported to rank among the best in the world. Iyambo, who resumed duty yesterday following his annual leave told a media briefing the article published in The Namibian newspaper was not correct.

"I was in Cuba. I planned the trip already last year. I decided to go to Cuba and do a complete check-up. I never thought that my absence would be missed. And for the colleagues who wrote the article, I think it is Denver (Kisting) - I don't think Iyambo hates you. I know you are a journalist and you are doing your job, but sometimes you get it on the spot and sometimes not," Iyambo said.

The misleading news article stated that barely six months after he returned to work following extended sick leave, Iyambo was back in hospital. "Check-ups are done at hospitals not on the streets. I went to a Cuban hospital, because in terms of medical services Cuba is the best. I know the area, I studied there and I speak the language. I had arranged to go for a medical check-up. It is more than enough to talk about my health. Allow me to concentrate on other things," the minister who appeared as fit as a fiddle explained.

He encouraged people to go for regular check ups, saying he is in good shape. "I heard that I collapsed. I did not collapse at the airport. Denver you are doing your job. You heard enough - leave me alone now and assist me with education," he offered tongue-in-cheek.