Namibia has accomplished a significant feat in the global health arena by becoming the first country in Africa, as well as the first high-burden nation worldwide, to achieve a crucial milestone in eradicating the transmission of HIV and viral hepatitis B from mothers to their children. This groundbreaking achievement was confirmed by the World Health Organization (WHO) on Monday.
The WHO highlighted the immense burden of HIV and hepatitis B in eastern and southern Africa, where over half of the world’s HIV cases are found, with the continent accounting for two-thirds of new hepatitis B infections globally.
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Namibia, with a population of more than 200,000 people living with HIV, faces a disproportionate impact on women due to new infections. Anne Githuku-Shongwe, UNAIDS Regional Director for East and Southern Africa, emphasized the significance of Namibia’s achievement, praising the country’s dedication to ensuring that no child is left behind in accessing treatment.
In Namibia, HIV testing for pregnant women is nearly universally available, and access to treatment has resulted in a remarkable 70% reduction in vertical transmission over the past two decades. Only 4% of babies born to HIV-positive mothers acquired the virus in 2022, a testament to the effectiveness of prevention and treatment efforts. Additionally, nearly 80% of infants received timely hepatitis B vaccination, a critical indicator of progress towards elimination.
Namibia’s success can be attributed to its integration of primary healthcare services with antenatal, child health, and sexual and reproductive health services, coupled with the widespread availability of free clinical services and support.
Recognizing Namibia’s remarkable progress, the WHO has awarded the country “silver tier” status for its strides in reducing hepatitis B transmission and “bronze tier” status for its efforts in combating HIV.
Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, WHO Regional Director for Africa, hailed Namibia’s achievement as a landmark accomplishment resulting from dedicated political leadership and effective implementation of public health priorities.
The WHO’s Triple Elimination Initiative, aimed at curbing the transmission of hepatitis B, HIV, and syphilis, underscores the importance of safeguarding the health of mothers and children and upholding every child’s right to be born free from the burden of these viruses.
