Namibia has achieved a significant milestone in the fight against mother-to-child transmission of HIV and hepatitis B, becoming the first country in Africa and the first high-burden country globally to reach this achievement. With more than half of the world’s HIV burden in Eastern and Southern Africa and Africa accounting for two-thirds of new hepatitis B infections worldwide, Namibia’s progress is commendable.

Globally, 2.5 million children have been spared vertical transmission of HIV since 2010, with 28,000 of these cases in Namibia. The country has made remarkable strides, with almost universal HIV testing among pregnant women and a 70% reduction in vertical transmission over the past two decades. In 2022, only 4% of babies born to HIV-positive mothers acquired the virus, showcasing the effectiveness of access to treatment.

Namibia’s success can be attributed to the integration of primary healthcare services with antenatal, child health, and sexual and reproductive health services. The government’s commitment to stable domestic financing for national health programs has ensured accessible, quality clinical services and support free of charge.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has recognized Namibia’s efforts by awarding them ‘silver tier’ status for progress in reducing hepatitis B and ‘bronze tier’ for progress in combating HIV. This achievement follows Namibia’s strategic approach to combatting the transmission of hepatitis B, HIV, and syphilis as part of WHO’s Triple Elimination Initiative.

Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, WHO Regional Director for Africa, commended Namibia’s achievement, emphasizing the importance of political leadership and effective public health implementation in saving lives. The goal of ending mother-to-child transmission of HIV, hepatitis B, and syphilis is within reach with concerted efforts.

The validation process led by WHO, in collaboration with UNICEF, UNAIDS, and UNFPA, evaluates data and sets standards for disease elimination. Countries are certified based on specific criteria, such as providing the hepatitis B vaccine to 50% or more newborns for silver tier status and reducing vertical HIV transmission to less than 5% for bronze tier status.

Namibia’s success serves as a beacon of hope and a testament to the impact of dedicated efforts in public health. With continued commitment and collaboration, the goals of ending mother-to-child transmission of HIV and hepatitis B are within reach.