Namibia leads fight againstmother-to-child hepatitis transfer

Namibia has become the first country in Africa to be awarded silver tier status for its progress in reducing mother-to-child transmission of hepatitis B.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) awarded the country the accolade in May.

This demonstrates that progress is possible when there is government ownership and concerted action.

It is an example to emulate.

This year’s theme, ‘It is Time for Action’ is in harmony with the WHO’s new global health strategy.

It reminds us of the opportunities that lie ahead if we are to reduce new hepatitis infections by 90% by 2030.

Ten years ago, the WHO African Region adopted a plan to reduce chronic hepatitis B infection to less than 2% in children under five, and to introduce a hepatitis B birth dose in at least 25 countries by the end of 2020.

Similarly, the 2024 Global Hepatitis Report reminds us that despite the remarkable efforts of our member states, committing domestic resources to the viral hepatitis response is still far from being accomplished.

The WHO continues to support efforts to eliminate viral hepatitis by 2030 by providing up-to-date strategies, frameworks and guidance for decentralised, simplified and person-centred prevention, diagnosis, care and treatment.

We need to do more for equity as socio-economic and other barriers endure and prevent people from accessing free diagnosis and treatment for hepatitis.

Progress is possible, as Namibia has demonstrated.

Multisectoral, interdisciplinary, concerted efforts for reaching both the 2030 targets, as well as the three key milestones of the 2021 to 2030 Framework for an Integrated Multisectoral Response to Tuberculosis, HIV, Sexually Transmitted Infections and Hepatitis, are urgently needed.

I urge countries to ensure political commitment at the highest level towards fulfilling our agreed targets to eliminate hepatitis, and for policymakers and partners to jointly identify the populations most affected by viral hepatitis.

This is in an effort to commit to actions that respond to the local evidence and health system contexts, while upholding fundamental human rights.

I also encourage civil society organisations to sustain their efforts in ending viral hepatitis by reaching the most vulnerable and tackling social stigma.

I recommend that the private sector explore new initiatives and investment opportunities with our member states to increase the local production of medicines for hepatitis B and C in Africa by strengthening the regional manufacturing sector.

I would like to extend my call to the academic community, a key actor capable of contributing innovation and groundbreaking ideas, by inviting them to challenge any ‘business as usual’ approaches in the fight against hepatitis.

Finally, let everyone seek testing and treatment for hepatitis, as viral hepatitis can be ended only if we all act.

• Dr Matshidiso Moeti is the World Health Organisation’s regional director for Africa.