The World Health Organisation (WHO) presented Namibia with meritorious awards for remarkable performances on the path towards eliminating vertical mother-to-child transmission of both HIV and viral hepatitis B.
Based on set criteria, the WHO has awarded Namibia a “silver tier” status for progress on reducing hepatitis B and a “bronze tier” for remarkable progress in significant reduction of HIV.
WHO says Namibia has become the first country in Africa to reach such a significant milestone.
“This is a landmark achievement by Namibia that demonstrates the life-saving possibilities of committed political leadership and effective implementation of public health priorities,” said Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, WHO regional director for Africa.
Prime minister Saara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila said this recognition does not only speak to the important work done by the Namibian government in this subsector of public health and the healthcare professionals who have dedicated their lives to this cause, but it is also a testament to the resilience, unity and unwavering commitment of the Namibian people as a whole and the immense support that Namibia has received from development cooperation partners over the years.
She made these remarks at the occasion of the certification ceremony for Namibia’s path to the elimination of mother-to-child transmission of HIV and hepatitis B virus, during a three-day WHO Africa Health Workforce Investment Forum underway in Windhoek, Namibia from 6 to 8 May 2024. Photo: Office of the Prime Minister
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