2025 was brought to a close with the commemoration of World AIDS Day, under the global theme, “Overcoming Disruption and Transforming the AIDS Response.” Successful events were held across the regions in collaboration with stakeholders, reinforcing Namibia’s commitment to sustaining the HIV response, ending stigma, and building resilient communities. Tonata’s participation in coordination meetings supported the national response, which brought together different sectors to review progress, identify gaps, and plan for effective interventions. In Kavango East, the WAD commemoration was held by the Regional Council in collaboration with stakeholders at Mabushe Combined School and attended by 230 community members. During the event, the Chief Medical Officer at Rundu RMT emphasized the importance of ending stigma and discrimination against people living with HIV, noting that stigma remains a key barrier to treatment adherence. The officer further highlighted that the contributions of various stakeholders toward achieving zero new infections have made a significant impact in the region. Oshana region hosted 180 community members during the WAD commemoration, while more than 200 people attended WAD in Ohangwena. |
WAD in Omusati
WAD in Omusati was characterized by an inspirational testimony by Ms. Olivia Matheus on behalf on PLHIV. She shared her personal journey, encouraged positive living, called on community members to join local support groups, and urged WLHIV to seek cervical cancer screening and men to undergo circumcision to advance HIV prevention efforts. A keynote address was delivered on behalf of the Minister of Health and Social services. The Minister described World AIDS Day as a time for national unity and reflection, honoring those lost to HIV and standing in solidarity with those living with the virus, followed by a moment of silence. She also highlighted Namibia’s strong progress toward the UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets, with 96% of people living with HIV aware of their status, 98% on treatment, and 98% virally suppressed. In the Omusati Region, over 30,700 people are currently receiving antiretroviral treatment. Looking ahead, the Minister cautioned that despite progress, men, children, and adolescents must not be left behind in the HIV response. She highlighted Lenacapavir, a twice-yearly long-acting injectable, as a promising innovation for HIV prevention and treatment, while noting current cost challenges and ongoing efforts to secure regulatory approval and equitable access. The Minister also acknowledged shifting donor funding and thanked partners including PEPFAR, the Global Fund, and UNAIDS, while reaffirming government’s commitment to domestic financing and continued procurement of antiretroviral medicines. The event also marked the launch of the 7th Edition of the ART Guidelines 2025 and the 4th Edition of the PMTCT Guidelines 2025, aimed at strengthening HIV care and advancing the triple elimination of mother-to-child transmission of HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B. In closing, she called for collective action, affirming that Namibia has the tools, partnerships, and resilience to end AIDS as a public health threat by 2030. Mobile HIV testing was made available at a nearby school, ensuring access for learners and community members. |
