Minister of health and social services Esperance Luvindao has reaffirmed Namibia’s commitment to advancing HIV-AIDS research and strengthening equitable access to healthcare.
Luvindao was speaking yesterday afternoon during the opening of the 19th International Conference on HIV Treatment, Pathogenesis and Prevention.
“It is a great honour to welcome you to this premier scientific HIV-AIDS conference in Africa. Your presence here underscores a collective commitment to advancing scientific research and promoting equitable access to HIV-AIDS services.”
Luvindao said Namibia continues to work towards an inclusive healthcare system that is accessible, evidence-based and patient-centred.
She added that the country is leveraging cross-sector partnerships, community-driven solutions, and new technologies to ensure no one is left behind in the fight against HIV-AIDS.
“Together, with continued research, innovation and collaboration, we aspire to build a resilient health system capable of addressing diverse health needs and achieving sustainable health outcomes for all,” she said.
The minister highlighted Namibia’s progress in meeting UNAIDS fast-track targets, with 93% of people living with HIV-AIDS aware of their status, 95% of those on treatment, and 98% of those on treatment virally suppressed.
“However, we acknowledge the remaining gaps, particularly among underserved populations. This is where innovative approaches are crucial,” she said.
Luvindao described the conference as an “invaluable platform” to share research and reaffirm efforts to end HIV-AIDS as a public health threat.
Also at the event, prime minister Elijah Ngurare highlighted Namibia’s historic strides in HIV-AIDS and hepatitis B prevention.
He said Namibia is the first country globally to receive a silver tier designation from the World Health Organisation for efforts to eliminate mother-to-child transmission of hepatitis B.
Namibia also received a bronze tier award in 2024 for reducing mother-to-child transmission of HIV-AIDS to below 5%.
“This is not just a conference, it is a clarion call to action. While we celebrate progress, we are not complacent. The closer we get to elimination, the harder the journey becomes. Behind every statistic is a life, a family, and a future,” he said.
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