Namibia renews commitment to sustaining HIV response amid funding shifts
WINDHOEK, May 6 (Xinhua) -- Namibian Minister of Health and Social Services Esperance Luvindao said on Tuesday that the government will continue to support the fight against HIV, even as foreign funding declines.
Speaking to lawmakers while presenting the ministry's 2025/2026 budget motivation, Luvindao highlighted Namibia's continued progress in combating HIV/AIDS.
She said the country is nearing the UNAIDS (Joint United Nations Program on HIV/AIDS) 95-95-95 targets, with 93 percent of people living with HIV aware of their status, 95 percent of those diagnosed receiving antiretroviral therapy, and 98 percent of those on treatment achieving viral suppression.
"Although funding cuts have raised concerns about access to antiretroviral medications, I wish to clarify that the government of Namibia has been procuring these medicines since 2016 and will continue to do so," Luvindao said.
Luvindao said Namibia is boosting the sustainability of its disease response through two initiatives -- a roadmap launched in November 2024 and a social contracting policy introduced in October 2023. "These frameworks aim to enhance domestic funding mechanisms and promote collaboration between the government and civil society organizations."
Luvindao stressed the importance of inclusive policies and community engagement, particularly in addressing barriers faced by vulnerable groups in accessing HIV services.
"Namibia remains resolute in building a resilient health system that prioritizes national ownership, long-term planning, and equitable access," she said.
According to the minister, antiretroviral therapy coverage currently stands at 95 percent, with efforts ongoing to decentralize services and expand access through differentiated service delivery models.
Namibia, with a population of about 3.1 million people, has been recognized internationally for its robust response to HIV, despite limited resources.
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