Namibia exceeds UNAIDS targets with community-led approach

Minister in the presidency Christine //Hoëbes said Namibia is making great strides overachieving on the Joint United Nations, Programme on HIV-AIDS 95-95-95 targets.

According to the minister, Namibia has achieved 95-97-94 of the targets.

“The collaborative efforts of healthcare professionals, community leaders, civil society organisations and the unwavering support of our citizens have been instrumental in reaching and surpassing these targets,” //Hoëbes said.

She was speaking at the World AIDS Day commemoration in the Hardap region, under the theme, ‘Let communities lead’ and the sub theme, ‘Together for an HIV-Free Namibia’.

//Hoëbes said the theme for this year’s event aligns with Namibia’s values and recognises the role of communities as active participants and leaders in the response to HIV-AIDS.

She said more than 20 000 people living with HIV get their care through Community Adherence Groups (CAG).

“…We need to speak to our healthcare providers and learn more about the CAGs, as we have more than 2 500 CAGs across Namibia,” she said.

The minister added that the contribution by the United States government of 16 vehicles, specifically designated for the clinical mentorship programme, is testament to the strength of collaborative efforts between the the UN and Namibia.

//Hoëbes said that the vehicles not only symbolise the physical mobility of clinical mentors, but also the mobility of progress, hope and a shared commitment to an HIV-free Namibia.

“These vehicles will facilitate the mobility of clinical mentors, enabling them to reach communities in need, provide essential education and support our efforts to achieve and sustain epidemic control,” she said.

At the same event, the ministry launched the national strategic framework for HIV and AIDS in Namibia 2022/23 – 2027/28, as well as the gender assessment for HIV and TB response report.

Speaking at the same event, Pepfar coordinator to Namibia Cheryl Amoroso congratulated the ministry on having established more than 2 500 CAGs, with over 20 000 members.

According to Amoroso, these community groups make it quicker and easier for people living with HIV to collect their medicines. They also provide an important platform for support, friendship and encouragement.

Amoroso was speaking on behalf of US ambassador to Namibia Randy Berry.

“Similarly, the US government works with the health ministry to host teen clubs, where young people living with HIV receive the treatment, care and support that they need. These groups are a platform for support, friendship and encouragement and an effective means of ensuring that people get the medicines they need,” she said.

Amoroso reaffirmed the US government’s commitment to work with the Namibian government to ensure that there is continued collaboration with communities through skills development so that they feel empowered to work towards achieving an AIDS free generation by 2030.