Namibia has achieved a remarkable public health feat, becoming only the second country in Africa to eliminate mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) of HIV, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).
The announcement on May 6th, 2024, celebrates a significant milestone. By the end of 2023, an incredible 98.5% of babies born to HIV-positive mothers in Namibia were born HIV-free. This achievement is a testament to the dedication of healthcare workers, policymakers, and the entire Namibian community.
Namibia’s success doesn’t stop there. They’ve also become the world’s first nation recognized for being on the path to eliminating mother-to-child transmission of the Hepatitis B virus (HBV).
The U.S. government, a partner in Namibia’s health initiatives, congratulated the nation on this extraordinary achievement. The U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) and USAID (US Agency for International Development) have collaborated with Namibia’s Ministry of Health and Social Services to bolster the country’s healthcare workforce, a crucial element in achieving these results.
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