Ambassador Randy Berry’s Visit to Oshana, Oshikoto, and Ohangwena Regions

U.S. Ambassador to Namibia Randy Berry traveled to the Oshana, Oshikoto, and Ohangwena regions on May 8-11 to engage beneficiaries of the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), senior government officials, and various members of the community. On Tuesday, Ambassador Randy Berry paid a courtesy visit to the Oshikoto and Ohangwena Regional Governors, Honorable …

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DREAMS Trains Young Women to Improve Early Childhood Education in Namibia

“She is an absolute delight to work with,” says one of Maxi’s colleagues at the non-governmental organization where they work together to improve Early Childhood Development (ECD) centers in Windhoek, Namibia. In 2021, Maxi joined DREAMS – an HIV prevention program for vulnerable adolescent girls and young women funded by the United States Government. When …

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New HIV Medicine for Children Saves More Lives

John* plays quietly on the floor as his caregiver looks proudly on. Healthy and growing, John is the perfect example of a thriving 3-year-old. However, this was not always the case. John was infected with HIV at birth, and despite being put on the HIV treatment available at the time, the virus was not suppressed …

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United States Supports Health Ministry to Store and Transport Life-Saving Medicines

Windhoek – The Ambassador of the United States of America to Namibia, Randy Berry, handed over 26 mobile freezers and 21 temperature monitoring systems to the Ministry of Health and Social Services on March 28, 2023, at the Central Medical Stores in Windhoek. The equipment to the value of N$1.2 million helps the Health Ministry …

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270,000 Circumcised Men Help Namibia’s Fight Against HIV

Swakopmund – On March 9th, the U.S. Government joined the Ministry of Health and Social Services in commemorating yet another milestone of Namibia’s fight against HIV as the country managed to get 270,000 young boys and men circumcised, with support of the United States President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR). “The risk of contracting …

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A Little Moonlight Goes a Long Way

Bringing HIV Services to Hard-to-Reach Populations “Good evening, do you have a moment to talk with us? Do you have friends who would like to join us?” These are some of the questions you can hear as the KP-STAR project team engages female sex workers on a street in Windhoek on a Friday night. KP-STAR …

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Statement from President Joe Biden on the 20th Anniversary of the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR)

Twenty years ago today, President George W. Bush declared that preventing and treating HIV/AIDS was a foreign policy priority of the United States. At a time when nearly 30 million people were HIV positive, but very few were receiving life-saving medicines, the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) transformed the global AIDS response and …

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Small High-Tech Freezer Goes Extra Mile to Deliver Vaccines to Namibians

Today is a very special day in Meme Linea Absalom’s life: The 55-year-old Namibian receives her first COVID-19 vaccination at the Onandjokwe Intermediate Hospital near the town of Ondangwa. “I just like to feel safe, and the vaccination means that I can be safe,” she explains. The vaccine that she receives came a long way …

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Remarks by U.S. Chargé D’Affaires Jessica Long at the World AIDS Day Commemoration

Good afternoon! It is an honour to be with you today to commemorate this World AIDS Day. The United States government remains committed to work with the Namibian government by “Putting Ourselves to the Test to Achieve Equity to End HIV”, which is the United States’ theme for this year’s World AIDS Day. This theme …

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U.S. Government commemorates World AIDS Day with Namibia

Windhoek – The United States government through the U.S President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) reaffirms its commitment to fight against HIV/AIDS and remembers the millions of people who have died of AIDS. In Namibia, PEPFAR works closely with the Namibian government to advance the health of the Namibian people through HIV prevention, care, …

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Peace Corps Volunteers Swearing-in Ceremony

Okahandja – The Swearing-in Ceremony for 14 Peace Corps Volunteers took place on Thursday, November 17, 2022, at Andreas Kukuri Conference Centre in Okahandja. The Minister of Health and Social Services, Honorable Dr. Kalumbi Shangula, delivered the keynote address to welcome Peace Corps’ Volunteers to Namibia. The U.S. Chargé d’Affaires, Ms. Jessica Long, the Executive …

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Remarks by Nicole Miller, Acting USAID Country Representative Launch of MOHSS Website & COVID-19 Social Media Campaign & Journalism Awards

Good morning, I am delighted that we are all gathered here today to witness and celebrate this important event, representing yet another milestone of the continued partnership between the United States and the Government of Namibia in the fight against COVID-19. The United States has committed over US$20 million – or more than N$350 million …

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Updated Website, Social Media Campaign & Journalism Awards: U.S. Strengthens Health Ministry’s COVID-19 Awareness

Windhoek – The Ministry of Health and Social Services, with support from the United States, launched an updated website and a social media campaign focusing on providing correct information and countering fake news around COVID-19 vaccines and the pandemic. Online and messenger platforms such as Facebook, Twitter and Instagram have been identified as powerful influencers …

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Remarks by Dr. Brian Baker, CDC Namibia Country Director, On the Occasion of the Launch of the MenStar Strategy in Namibia

Good morning and welcome! Today, we are here to celebrate the launch of the MenStar strategy, a critical program focused on improving health outcomes for men, and just as importantly, helping men to be community leaders in fighting the HIV epidemic in Namibia. On behalf of the U.S. Government, I am proud to be here …

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Tree planting to celebrate the 20th anniversary of CDC Namibia

Windhoek- On November 2, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention celebrated its 20th anniversary. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention opened its first office in Windhoek, Namibia in 2002, with subsequent satellite offices in Oshakati, Rundu, and Katima Mulilo. CDC is the United States’ public health agency. CDC works in the …

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Remarks by Jessica Long, U.S. Chargé d’Affaires at the Launch of the integrated Human Resources Information System (iHRIS)

Thank you for inviting me to this auspicious occasion. I want to thank the Office of the Prime Minister for its technical guidance and support for this initiative; Mr. Ben Nangombe, Executive Director of the Ministry of Health and Social Services, for his leadership; Mr. Jeremia Nghipundjwa and Ms. Anna Isaacs for their day-to-day management …

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U.S. Government Supports Health Ministry to Launch State-of-the-Art HR Management System

Windhoek – The Ministry of Health and Social Services launched a new state-of-the-art human resource management system in the capital. The digital, web-based integrated Human Resources Information System (iHRIS) is in use in more than 20 countries worldwide to manage health workforces in order to improve access to health services. The iHRIS will reduce the …

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U.S. Government Continues to Support Namibia’s Health Sector With Personal Protective Equipment

Windhoek – The U.S. Government has supported the Ministry of Health and Social Services in fighting COVID-19 since the virus arrived in Namibia. After two years of a prolonged battle against the pandemic, all COVID-19 related restrictions were removed in July 2022. However, the country needs to be prepared for a possible resurgence. In support …

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HIV in 9 out of 10 Infected Children Below Detection Level

Okambebe – HIV concentration in 90% of children living with the virus in Ohangwena Region is so low that a blood test cannot detect HIV anymore. This is the encouraging result of strict adherence to antiretroviral therapy and other support services provided by Project Hope’s Namibia Adherence and Retention Project (NARP). “Once HIV cannot be …

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United States Boosts Life-Saving Oxygen Supply at Onandjokwe Hospital

Windhoek – The U.S. government upgraded the oxygen generation plant at the Onandjokwe Hospital in Ondangwa to provide a stable supply of medical grade oxygen to the health facility. Dr. Abeje Zegeye from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) in Namibia handed over the upgraded plant, worth US$1 million (approx. N$17 million) to …

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U=U Campaign and Hotspot Report Address Challenges for Key Populations

Windhoek – An HIV-positive person cannot infect a sexual partner if his or her viral load is so low that the virus cannot be detected by a blood test. This is the key message of the Undetectable = Untransmittable (U=U) campaign that was launched by the Ministry of Health and Social Services together with the …

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Remarks by Chargé d’Affaires Jessica Long at the milestone achievement of Namibia making the best HIV medicine, Dolutegravir (DTG) available

Congratulations Namibia! I am very proud to be here today because I was invited to speak when the new pediatric HIV medicine was introduced to Namibia just over a year ago, and I have closely watched the progress made since then. The child version of DTG (I understand that we call it “pediatric DTG”) was …

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Health Alert – U.S. Embassy Windhoek, Namibia

Health Alert – U.S. Embassy Windhoek, Namibia Location: Countrywide Event:  The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Level 2 Travel Health Notice for  Monkeypox in Multiple Countries .  The World Health Organization has determined the multi-country outbreak of  Monkeypox  is a Public Health Emergency of International Concern ( click here  to view the WHO’s determination). To date, there have been …

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Traditional Circumciser Gains Title of Community Mobilizer

Norich Uararakana Kaurika, 44, is a respected traditional circumciser from Okakarara, a small town in Namibia’s Otjozondjupa Region. Norich takes pride in performing circumcisions because, for his tribe (Ovaherero), tradition dictates that every young man should be circumcised not only as a rite of passage but also to prevent infections and improve hygiene. He explains …

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New Labor Market Assessment Guides Employment and Entrepreneurial Opportunities for Young Women

Windhoek – The U.S. Government-funded DREAMS program and the Ministry of Sport, Youth and National Service launched a Labor Market Assessment Report which identifies economic growth sectors, occupational and entrepreneurship opportunities for adolescent girls and young women in Namibia. The Labor Market Assessment Report is critical to chart an economic pathway for young women. The assessment …

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United States Donates Millions of Condoms

Windhoek – The United States handed over 6.9 million condoms and 2.6 million lubricants to the Ministry of Health and Social Services to address supply shortages. Namibia has one of the highest HIV prevalence rates in the world, and condoms continue to be a health sector priority for preventing the spread of HIV. These commodities are …

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New Outreach Materials Encourage Women at Risk to Take PrEP

Windhoek – Yesterday, the U.S. Government-funded DREAMS program and the Ministry of Health and Social Services launched new public awareness materials encouraging young women at risk of contracting HIV to take Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis medication (PrEP) to stay HIV-free. PrEP reduces the risk of getting HIV from sex by 90%. HIV prevalence among Namibian adolescent girls and …

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“I regained my life through DREAMS” – Rempie

With only a Grade 10 in hand, 23-three-year-old Rempie Jeremaia from Omuthiya, just like so many other young Namibians, had limited options and was at high risk of living a life in poverty. But, with the help of DREAMS, a program funded by the U.S. Government President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) and the …

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“World Health Day Share Fair” Gives Voice to Key Populations

Windhoek –The U.S. Embassy’s Chargé d’Affaires Jessica Long and the Minister of Health and Social Services, Honorable Dr. Kalumbi Shangula, on Friday, April 08 opened Namibia’s first “World Health Day Share Fair” at Katutura’s UN Plaza. The Share Fair is a networking event organized by a U.S. government-funded Key Populations (KP) project called KP-STAR in …

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Remarks by Jessica Long, U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Opening of the Share Fair

Thank you for inviting me to the opening of the first Share Fair with the theme “Our planet, our health” in association with yesterday’s World Health Day. On behalf of the U.S. government, I wish to begin by recognizing the Namibian government’s response to challenges posed by COVID-19. I also wish to highlight the heroic …

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FELPT Cohort 6 Frontline Graduation Remarks by Dr. Brian Baker, CDC Namibia Country Director

Good morning, As many of know, the Field Epidemiology Training Program was modelled after a training approach created at the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) over 50 years ago, known as the Epidemic Intelligence Service, or EIS. The impetus for the EIS program was to meet the ever growing and changing needs …

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Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis Helps Vulnerable People Stay HIV-Free

“Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis or PrEP keeps me safe from contracting HIV.” These are the words of 40-year-old Mulela*, a resident of Makaravani location at Katima Mulilo in the Zambezi Region. Mulela was introduced to sex work by a friend as a last resort to provide for her three children aged 21, 15 and 13 years. “I …

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Remarks by Acting Deputy Chief of Mission, Walter Parrs for World TB Day 2022

Good morning! It is great to be here. Usually, my job keeps me in Windhoek, so I am very pleased to join you today here. Travelling in this beautiful country is always a pleasure, especially when it is to see the amazing work the Ministry of Health and Social Services and its partners are doing. …

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Namibia Receives 200 Medical Emergency Beds to Support COVID-19 Response

Windhoek –  The Ministry of Health and Social Services received today 200 new medical emergency beds following a months-long cooperation on the initiative by the U.S. Embassy in Namibia and the Namibian Embassy in the U.S. The Ministry will distribute the beds to four health facilities in support of Namibia’s COVID-19 response:  Katutura Hospital, Okahandja Hospital, Onandjokwe Hospital, …

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Who Will You Trust About Vaccines? By Chargé d’Affaires Jessica Long

Windhoek – The United States Government (USG) has been a partner in health with the Namibian Government for nearly two decades.  We have been incredibly successful in our joint efforts related to HIV and TB.  These efforts have revealed our commitment and reliability on issues of health.  Fifteen years ago, people in Namibia were dying every day from HIV/AIDS. Families …

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CAGs bring hope to those living with HIV

The air was dry, the cloudless sky blue, and the road dusty in the quiet sleepy town of Outjo. With the sun shining mercilessly, hot air blew through the community hall’s windows and wide-open doors on the side and back of the hall.  In this hall situated in Damara location was a sea of yellow …

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Remarks by Chargé d’Affaires Jess Long on World AIDS Day

It is an honour to be with you today to commemorate this year’s World AIDS Day. The focus of our partnership with the Namibian government remains on ‘Ending the HIV epidemic, working on Equitable access and Hearing everyone’s voice’ which is also the United States government’s theme for this year’s World AIDS Day. As President …

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United States Supports Youth Ministry to Boost Services for Adolescents and Young Women

Windhoek – The U.S. government and Namibia’s Ministry of Sports, Youth and National Services (MSYNS) launched today a new program to provide better services to adolescent girls and young women and their male partners to prevent gender-based violence and HIV. The project agreement, worth N$5.4 million, was signed by the Director-General of the National Planning …

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United States Donates 124,000 Doses of the Pfizer BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine to Namibia

Windhoek – At an event hosted at the Ministry of International Relations and Cooperation today, the U.S. Embassy announced the donation by the United States government of 124,000 doses of the Pfizer BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine as part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s global efforts to fight the COVID-19 pandemic.  The vaccines arrived on October 22 following the …

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Remarks by U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Jessica Long at the Handover of the Second Consignment of U.S. Government donated Pfizer BioNTech vaccines

Good morning. I am so pleased to be here for a second time, exactly one month later, to celebrate the arrival of the second consignment of U.S. Government donated Pfizer Bio-NTech vaccines. Today we are handing over 124,000 doses of the Pfizer Bio-NTech COVID-19 vaccine. This is in addition to the first consignment of 100,620 …

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United States Donates 70 Intensive Care Unit Beds to MoHSS

Windhoek – The U.S. government has donated 70 Intensive Care Unit (ICU) beds worth more than N$700,000. The Ministry of Health and Social Services will distribute the beds to eight health facilities: Katutura, Rundu, Oshakati, and Onandjokwe Intermediate Hospitals, Gobabis, Walvis Bay, Swakopmund, and Katima Mulilo hospitals. During the third COVID-19 wave, many health facilities did not …

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Namibia Receives US$90.4 million for HIV Programming from the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR)

Windhoek – Today, U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Jess Long announced that the United States will contribute US$90.4 million in 2022 towards Namibia’s fight against AIDS through the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR). This is an increase from US$89 million contributed in 2021. The US$90.4 million will intensify the country’s efforts to reach epidemic control …

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United States Donates 100,620 Doses of the Pfizer COVID-19 Vaccine to Namibia

Windhoek – The U.S. Embassy in Windhoek, Namibia announces the donation by the U.S. Government of 100,620 doses of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine as part of our global efforts to fight the COVID-19 pandemic.  The donated vaccines are part of the U.S. pledge to initially provide at least 25 million of 80 million doses globally to Africa.  The U.S. government coordinated closely with the African Union, Africa Centers …

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Understanding COVID Outbreaks in Namibian Schools

Keeping Learners in School in Namibia: An Outbreak Investigation of COVID-19 in Schools Children across the world have missed out on months of schooling during the COVID-19 pandemic. In Namibia, the Ministry of Education, Arts and Culture (MoEAC) ended the second term early and introduced a winter break when a third wave of the COVID-19 …

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United States Donates Electronic High-Tech Equipment to Support Namibia’s COVID-19 Vaccination Program

Windhoek – At a virtual ceremony today, the United States donated 176 tablet and 53 laptop computers, as well as 250 remote temperature monitoring devices and 2,000 terabytes in hard-drive capacity to the Ministry of Health and Social Services (MOHSS) to support the country’s COVID-19 vaccine roll-out. The electronic equipment will be used for data entry …

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Testing Times: Sorting Samples in the COVID-19 Laboratory in Namibia

While many people know what it is like to be tested for COVID-19, only a few people know what happens to the samples once the swab has been taken. Due to the recent surge in cases in Namibia, staff from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Namibia have been volunteering to assist …

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U.S. Government Donates Personal Protective Equipment for COVID-19 Health Care Workers

Windhoek – The U.S. government donated medical personal protective equipment (PPE) and supplies worth N$4 million (US$294,000) to the Ministry of Health and Social Services.  The equipment has been distributed to frontline COVID-19 health care workers in health facilities all over the country over the past four weeks. The equipment includes 140,000 surgical masks, more than 25,000 …

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20,000 More Orphans and Vulnerable Children Receive U.S.-Funded HIV Support Services

Outapi – Over the past seven years, the U.S. Government has supported close to 60,000 Namibian orphans and vulnerable children (OVC) affected by HIV with services to live healthy, safe lives, and to stay in school.  On May 27 in a ceremony at Outapi in the Omusati region, the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief …

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U.S. Government Donates Equipment To Erongo Health Directorate To Bolster COVID-19 Response

Windhoek – The U.S. Government has donated 70 blood pressure machines and 41 patient monitors to the Erongo region health directorate to support the national response to the COVID-19 pandemic. This donation is in addition to the N$100 million of COVID-19 assistance for Namibia from the U.S. Government, which the U.S. Embassy announced in April …

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United States Supports Access To HIV Prevention, Care And Treatment Services For Correctional Service Inmates

Windhoek – To continue increasing access to HIV services for all people in Namibia, the U.S. Embassy in Namibia has supported the opening of two HIV testing facilities in cooperation with the Namibian Correctional Service. Working through the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Namibia (CDC Namibia) in collaboration with the Ministry of Health …

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U.S. Donates Laboratory Equipment to Test for COVID-19

Windhoek –The U.S. Government has donated laboratory equipment to support the Ministry of Health and Social Services in its ongoing efforts to curb the COVID-19 pandemic. The high-tech equipment, valued at US$422,000 (approx.N$6.2mil), consists of 30 centrifuges, 15 vortex mixers, 12 biosafety cabinets, 10 refrigerators and 10 freezers. The equipment will be distributed throughout Namibia …

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Remarks by U.S. Ambassador Lisa Johnson at the USAID COVID-19 Laboratory Equipment Handover

It is an honor for me to be here with you at this important occasion to mark yet another step in our continued fight against COVID-19, in a spirit of partnership and goodwill. First, I would like to commend the Namibian government, Honourable Minister of Health and Social Services Dr. Shangula and his team for …

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Statement by U.S. Ambassador Lisa Johnson in Recognition of International Women’s Day on March 8

Windhoek – Each year on March 8, the world celebrates International Women’s Day.  This year, I am taking this opportunity to encourage women in Namibia, especially those who are HIV-positive, to get screened for cervical cancer. Every woman who has ever been sexually active should be screened regularly starting at the age of 20, every three …

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Research guides convenient and cost-effective long-term HIV care in Namibia

Credit: CDC Namibia January is often a time when people review their budgets, both personally and professionally. For government bodies, the financial year is drawing to a close, and the operation of the last couple of months of the fiscal year are impacted by the pressures and stressors of the year, and how well the …

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U.S. Extends Funding for COVID Data Analysts and Public Health Specialists at MOHSS

As the number of COVID-19 cases continues to rise in Namibia, the U.S. Embassy also continues to provide support to the Ministry of Health and Social Services to respond to the challenges of COVID-19. Many people in Namibia travelled within and outside the country over the festive season.  It is important to understand how and …

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Remarks by the U.S. Ambassador to Namibia at the World AIDS Day Commemoration

This year’s World AIDS day theme is “Global solidarity, shared responsibility.” For over 15 years, the United States and Namibia have been partners in health. The result of our partnership is that Namibia is a global leader in the fight against HIV! Together with Namibia, we share a common interest in reaching and sustaining epidemic …

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U.S. Embassy Supports 24 New Jobs at the Ministry of Health for COVID-19 Fight

The American Embassy is supporting 24 new public health jobs at the Ministry of Health and Social Services (MOHSS) to continue the fight on COVID-19. The new temporary employees, who started in October, have been hired for three months and work in seven regions to help keep the gains made in reducing COVID-19 transmission in …

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Remarks by the U.S. Ambassador to Namibia at the launch of two Ministry of Health reports

“Determining the Cost of Providing HIV Care and Treatment, Including the Achievement of Viral Suppression, to Patients at Antiretroviral Therapy Sites in Namibia” and “Assessment of Community Adherence Club Implementation in Namibia’s HIV Programme, July 2020” Good afternoon! The United States Government, through the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), has been in Namibia since …

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Remarks by the CDC Country Director at the launch of the Roadmap for the Elimination of MTCT and Congenital Syphilis

Dr Eric Dziuban, “All you need is a plan, the roadmap, and the courage to press on to your destination”, by Earl Nightingale. This quote is by an American motivational speaker and radio personality. While it was written many years ago, it is perfect for today. We had the plan, we have the roadmap, and …

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America donates face shields and swabs to support Namibia’s fight against COVID-19

Windhoek – The U.S. Embassy in Namibia has donated 11,000 face shields and 3,000 nasal testing swabs packaged with specimen transport media tubes to the Ministry of Health and Social Services and the Namibia Institute of Pathology. The donation is part of the N$100 million donation to fight COVID-19 that was announced by the U.S. Embassy …

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U.S. Ambassador announces US$89 million for HIV prevention, care, and treatment in 2021 from the PEPFAR

Windhoek – U.S. Ambassador Lisa Johnson announced that the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) will contribute $89 million U.S. dollars to Namibia in 2021 to fight HIV. The funding amount is an increase from $81 million USD that the PEPFAR program provided in 2020. The $89 million USD will move U.S.-Namibian efforts …

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Ambassador Johnson’s Remarks for the PEPFAR Media Briefing

Thank you for joining this important media briefing today. I appreciate your interest in the work that the United States undertakes jointly with Namibia. We are strong partners in health. The United States President’s Emergency Plan For AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) began its work in Namibia in 2005. We have been here for 15 years and …

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America Strengthens Healthcare Services in Namibia

The U.S. government is supporting the Ministry of Health and Social Services to hire 67 data clerks for a one-month period during the month of September.  By increasing the Ministry’s capacity to analyse disease trends and patterns, Namibia is better able to understand and respond to healthcare needs of the population. These data clerks will …

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U.S. Embassy Supports Namibia’s Readiness and Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic

Through funding from the CDC Foundation, the Ministry of Health and Social Services National Healthcare Training Centre has conducted the first in a series of new trainings for healthcare workers on COVID-19. The funding is in addition to the N$100 million of U.S. assistance towards Namibia’s COVID-19 response announced earlier this year. More than 400 …

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U.S. Food Assistance Enables 4,000 HIV Patients to Resume Treatment

Gobabis – More than 4,000 Namibian HIV patients who stopped taking their antiretroviral medication have resumed treatment as a result of the United States’ food assistance program, which comes to an end in August. “I simply could not take my medication on an empty stomach because of side effects,” recalls Pezaje Tjazuvara from Otjinene, Omaheke …

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Namibia and America will Overcome COVID-19 Together

U.S. Ambassador to Namibia Lisa A. Johnson As U.S. Ambassador to Namibia, my priority has always been partnering with Namibia to improve the health of Namibians. The United States’ decades long investment in PEPFAR, in partnership with the Namibian government, has helped to save a generation of Namibians from HIV. Today, we are threatened by …

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Ambassador Lisa Johnson’s Announcement of N$100 Million to Support Namibia’s COVID-19 Response

I am proud to announce that the United States is providing N$100 million in assistance to Namibia to fight COVID-19. As U.S. Ambassador, my priority has always been partnering with Namibia to improve the health of Namibians. This is a partnership that works and it is helping to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in Namibia. …

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Health Alert – U.S. Embassy Windhoek, Namibia

Location:  Namibia (countrywide) Event:  The Namibian Ministry of Health and Social Services has confirmed 8 cases of COVID-19 in Namibia. The Department of State has issued a Global Level 4 Health Advisory for COVID-19.  We recognize this has been a challenging period for many of our fellow Americans, particularly those of you seeking to depart Namibia as …

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Health Alert – U.S. Embassy Windhoek, Namibia

Location: Windhoek, Namibia Event: Message to American Citizens Regarding New COVID-19 Namibian National Response Measures The Namibian Ministry of Health and Social Services has now confirmed seven cases of COVID-19 in Namibia. In response to the ongoing COVID-19 global pandemic, the Namibian government announced that internal travel restrictions will apply with respect to Khomas and …

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U.S. Embassy Donates Ambulances, Medical Equipment for COVID-19 Response

March 19, 2020 – Today, U.S. Ambassador Lisa Johnson handed over to the Ministry of Health and Social Services three ambulances, hospital beds, and other medical equipment to help Namibia in the fight against COVID-19. Ambassador Johnson joined Health Ministry Executive Director Ben Nangombe as the ambulances and equipment were offloaded from shipping containers at …

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Ambassador Johnson Participates in MIRCO-led COVID-19 Briefing

On Tuesday March 16 U.S. Ambassador to Namibia, Lisa Johnson stated that Peace Corps Volunteers in Namibia and worldwide would return to the United States due to the COVID-19 outbreak.  She made the announcement during the MIRCO-led briefing on COVID-19, adding that volunteers will return when conditions permit. “This is worldwide decision was made because …

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U.S. Embassy Deploys Six New Vehicles to Support Clinical and Nurse Mentors

Swakopmund – On Thursday February 13, U.S. Ambassador to Namibia, Lisa Johnson joined the Minister of Health and Social Services, Honorable Dr. Kalumbi Shangula to deploy six new vehicles for use by clinical and nurse mentors. The six vehicles will be deployed in the Omusati, Kunene, Hardap, and Omaheke regions and will enable clinical and …

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Remarks by U.S. Ambassador Lisa Johnson at the PEPFAR COP 20 Stakeholder meeting

Good morning and thank you all for attending the PEPFAR stakeholders’ meeting to kick off this year’s COP planning season. The United States is the single largest donor to Namibia’s fight against HIV, and we do not intend to stop now! We are excited to begin the planning process for COP20, which will provide PEPFAR …

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Ambassador Lisa Johnson visits Cervical Cancer Screening and Treatment sites in Oshakati and Onandjokwe

On January 23, U.S. Ambassador Johnson joined the Ministry of Health and Social Services at Oshakati and Onandjokwe Hospitals to learn more about why cervical cancer screening is so important for all women who are sexually active, and particularly women who are HIV positive. “Cervical cancer is a health risk that is preventable, unlike other …

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Remarks by U.S. Ambassador Lisa Johnson at the World Aids Day Commemoration

It is my absolute pleasure to be here with you today to commemorate World AIDS Day in the Khomas region. With the global theme “Communities make a difference”, it is so important to see you, the members of this community, here today because the ability to make a difference is in your hands.  Namibia’s goal …

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U.S. Supports Namibia’s Fight Against HIV/AIDS with Expanded Voluntary Circumcision Program

Windhoek – U.S. Ambassador Lisa Johnson launched the new PEPFAR-funded voluntary medical male circumcision (VMMC) program “SAFE VMMC” in Namibia.  The up to five-year, US$33.5 million program is led by USAID and the Ministry of Health and Social Services.  Through the VMMC program, implementer Abt Associates will expand voluntary medical male circumcision services to reach …

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Health Ministry and U.S. Ambassador introduce most advanced HIV treatment to Namibia

On 1 October, 2019, the Executive Director from the Ministry of Health and Social Services, Ben Nangombe, and U.S. Ambassador to Namibia, Lisa Johnson, marked the introduction of the most advanced HIV treatment currently available, Tenofovir/Lamivudine/Dolutegravir (TLD), to Namibia. The Executive Director and the Ambassador visited Nathaniel Maxwilili Clinic in Windhoek. During the clinic visit …

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NUST HIV/AIDS Awareness and Wellness Campaign 2019

Good morning! It is my pleasure to be here with you all today. The Namibia University of Science and Technology’s annual HIV/AIDS and Wellness Campaign is a great way for us to share information and increase our knowledge about HIV. This year’s theme, ‘Knowledge is Power,’ is appropriate because when we know more, we are …

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Remarks by U.S. Ambassador Lisa Johnson at the Community Adherence Groups Milestone

We are here today with the Yambidhidha Community Adherence Group to celebrate an important achievement: more than 3,200 people in eight health districts now receive their HIV medication through Tonata’s 322 Community Adherence Groups! If it were not for the Community Adherence Groups, many of those people would face difficulties in obtaining their medication and …

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Remarks by U.S. Ambassador Lisa Johnson at the launch of the Namibia National ART Guidelines

Launch for the National Guidelines for Antiretroviral Therapy, the Paediatric and Adolescents ART Package, and the CBART Evaluation report Today is an exciting day. These new guidelines are making important changes in the way HIV positive patients will receive care and treatment. We also are launching several documents to support the Pediatric and Adolescents HIV …

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USAID Hands Over 4×4-Vehicle and TB-Testing Equipment to Tsumkwe Clinic

Tsumkwe – The United States Agency for International Development’s (USAID) Country Representative, Dr. Randy Kolstad, handed over a 4×4-vehicle and cartridges for a GeneXpert TB diagnostic machine to use for tuberculosis (TB) diagnosis, to the Ministry of Health and Social Services at Tsumkwe, Otjozondjupa Region, on 17 July 2019. Over the past five years, one …

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U.S. Government Donates Warehouse Equipment Worth N$500,000 to Medical Depots in Oshakati and Rundu

Oshakati – The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) handed over warehouse equipment valued at N$500,000 to the Multi-Regional Medical Depots of Oshakati and Rundu on 25 July 2019. Each warehouse received half of the equipment consisting of items such as semi-electric stackers, heavy-duty mobile platforms, and safety gear. The items that are funded …

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VMMC Milestone & Handover Event

Good morning and welcome! I am very pleased and proud to join you for this important milestone event, which tells yet another Namibian success story. 150,000!  This is the magic number we are celebrating today. We are celebrating 150,000 smart male Namibians who have volunteered to get the “smart cut.” Under the leadership and guidance …

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U.S. Ambassador Lisa Johnson remarks at the PEPFAR Media Information Session

Thank you for attending this important media briefing today.  I appreciate your interest in this life-saving work that the United States government undertakes jointly with the Namibian government. The United States President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) was enacted on May 27, 2003, and began its work in Namibia in 2005.Our commitment remains unwavering. …

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Announcement of the New MoHSS-CDC 5 year Cooperative Agreement

Remarks by the U.S. Ambassador to Namibia, Ms. Lisa Johnson and CDC Country Director, Dr. Eric Dziuban at the announcement of the new MoHSS-CDC 5 year cooperative agreement U.S. Ambassador to Namibia, Ms. Lisa Johnson Good morning – I am thrilled to be here with you today. The U.S. Embassy and the Ministry of Health …

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Healthcare providers receive certificates for “screen and treat” training

On March 29 the U.S. Ambassador to Namibia, Lisa Johnson, presented certificates of completion to healthcare providers from the Khomas Region who have been trained on the “screen and treat” procedure as part of the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relieve (PEPFAR). The Ambassador also sat in on a patient education session to learn more …

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World TB Day Commemoration

Dr. Randy Kolstad, USAID Country Representative, Launch of National Guidelines for the Treatment and Management of TB & National Tuberculosis Disease Prevalence Survey It is an honor to join you today in this beautiful Oshakati stadium for this year’s World TB Day commemorations.  Today’s commemorations are part of a worldwide occasion to raise awareness about the …

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U.S. Government Hands Over Nutrition Equipment to Ministry of Health and Social Services

Windhoek – On 18 March 2019, the United States President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) handed nutrition equipment valued at N$1 million (US$72,000) to the Ministry of Health and Social Services at Windhoek’s Maxuilili Clinic. The equipment, which consists of 100 body weighing scales, 100 height-measuring …

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Remarks by CDC Country Director, Dr. Eric Dziuban at the FELTP Graduation

Good morning. It is always a pleasure to speak at a graduation ceremony because of the celebratory feeling that comes with such an event. Having moved to Namibia nearly one year ago, I know I will miss a few weddings and other celebrations back home, but I am so pleased that this is already my …

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CDC provides 600 hepatitis E rapid test kits to the Ministry of Health and Social Services

The U.S. Embassy in Namibia, through the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, continued its assistance to help Namibia control the hepatitis E outbreak by announcing the handover of 600 hepatitis E rapid test kits and personal protective equipment to the Ministry of Health and Social Services.  This support is a continuation of the …

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World AIDS Day Commemoration

For 30 years we have marked World AIDS Day.  On this day we reflect on the impact HIV/AIDS has had on the lives of millions of people around the world.  This day also is a solemn reminder of the many lives lost to HIV/AIDS.  Today in Namibia, however, we have cause for hope and also …

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USAID provides N$395 million to fight HIV/AIDS

Windhoek – On 28 November 2018, the United States Government (USG), represented by the Agency for International Development (USAID), and the Government of the Republic of Namibia, represented by the National Planning Commission (NPC) and the Ministry of Health and Social Services (MOHSS), signed an amendment to their 2007 bilateral grant agreement to add US$28.2 …

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The Importance of Creating A Science Base and A Base for Science: Why Cutting-edge Science Matters

Disease knows no borders. In today’s interconnected world, diseases can spread from an isolated, rural village to any major city in as little as 36 hours. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) works 24/7 to protect Americans and save lives around the world by detecting and controlling outbreaks at their source. Critically, …

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Remarks by U.S. Ambassador Lisa Johnson at the handover of the Akutsima CBART site

Thank you for inviting me here today. I, too, come from a small town, so it is special for me to have the opportunity to visit places such as Akutsima. While quite different from my home town, what is the same is the sense of community. I am telling you this because I want you …

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Remarks: CDC Country Director at the Launch of the National Cervical Cancer Prevention Guidelines

Thank you to the Ministry of Health and Social Services for inviting me to speak at this event today. I know it is a little strange for a man to give remarks at an event about a female cancer. I will never know the fear of this cancer growing in my own body, or the …

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U.S. Ambassador remarks at the NAMPHIA Launch

Today is a remarkable day.  The results presented here today show that Namibia is one of the countries leading the world in implementation of a successful national response to end the HIV epidemic. Namibia, I congratulate you.  I especially want to congratulate the women of Namibia for having already achieved the UNAIDS 90-90-90 targets two …

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Remarks by U.S. Ambassador Lisa Johnson at the DREAMS milestone event

Today we are celebrating the “DREAMS” program. The name is very appropriate, because through this program, adolescent girls and young women receive the support they need to be Determined, Resilient, Empowered, AIDS-free, Mentored, and Safe. And with this support, they can achieve their dreams. All too often, girls’ dreams are interrupted. Research shows a cycle …

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USAID Provides N$32 Million to Increase Community-Based HIV Services

Windhoek – The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) is pleased to announce a N$32,000,000 partnership over five years with the TONATA PLHIV (People Living with HIV) Network to expand community-based HIV treatment among its network of over 600 community support groups representing 17,300 Namibians living with the virus. The partnership with funding from …

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Remarks by U.S. Ambassador Lisa Johnson, Celebrating zero babies infected with HIV under PMTCT programs in selected health facilities

Congratulations to the clinical staff, community workers, Ministry of Health and Social Services, and most importantly, families and children, on achieving zero cases of HIV infection in 2017 among children born to mothers living with HIV who enrolled in mother-baby follow up in this clinic. This site is one of 21 PEPFAR-supported Ministry sites across …

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United States and Namibia Celebrate Success in Fight against Drug-Resistant Tuberculosis

Windhoek – On 19 March 2018, the United States Ambassador Lisa Johnson, together with representatives of the Ministry of Health and Social Services, celebrated the successful treatment of three young patients suffering from extremely drug-resistant tuberculosis (XDR-TB) at the Katutura Intermediate Hospital’s TB Clinic in the capital. The cured patients are part of a group …

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2018 International Women’s Day Reception

Remarks by Ambassador Johnson 2018 International Women’s Day Reception Thank you for joining me this evening to celebrate International Women’s Day, recognized around the world on March 8. March also is Women’s History Month in the United States, so I’m keeping the celebration going. International Women’s Day first was recognized in 1911 as a strategy …

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2017 World AIDS Day Commemoration

Remarks by U.S. Ambassador Thomas F. Daughton at the 2017 World AIDS Day Commemoration Katima Mulilo Sports Field, Zambezi Region Good morning!  It is a great privilege and honor to be here with you today at the official commemoration of the 30th World AIDS Day.  I am especially honored because this is my fourth – but unfortunately last …

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USAID provides N$435 million to Namibia to fight HIV/AIDS

Windhoek – On 06 November 2017, the United States Government (USG), represented by the Agency for International Development (USAID), and the Government of the Republic of Namibia, represented by the National Planning Commission (NPC) and the Ministry of Health and Social Services (MOHSS), signed an amendment to their 2007 bilateral grant agreement to add US$31 …

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Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) Event

U.S. Ambassador Thomas F. Daughton remarks at Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (Prep) Event Wbcg Container, 14th Road, Walvis Bay, Erongo Region Good morning!  We are here in Walvis Bay today to recognize another major achievement by the Namibian government in the fight against HIV and AIDS in this country.  The achievement we’re marking today is another milestone …

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Launch of the National Health Report 2014/2015

U.S. Ambassador Thomas F. Daughton remarks on the Launch of the National Health Report 2014/2015 (Delivered By Mr. Robert Rhodes, Acting USAID Country Representative) Safari Court Hotel, Windhoek, Khomas Region I would like to congratulate the Ministry of Health and Social Services on the completion of the 2014/15 Health Accounts Report, the fifth round of …

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The 50th Health Facility Equipped with the Facility Electronic Stock Card (FESC)

U.S. Ambassador Thomas F. Daughton remarks on The Milestone of the 50th Health Facility Equipped With The Facility Electronic Stock Card (FESC), Okatana Health Center, Oshakati District, Oshana Region Good morning!  It is a real pleasure for me this morning to be able to join the leadership of Oshana region in unveiling the electronic stock card …

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Opening of the Onjuva Clinic

U.S. Ambassador Thomas F. Daughton remarks at the Onjuva Clinic Opening, June 13, 2017 It is an honor for me to be here today on the auspicious occasion of the long-awaited opening of the Onjuva Clinic. You may have noticed a plaque near the entrance to the clinic. The plaque reads, “The construction of this building …

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SMS Printer

Ambassador Thomas F. Daughton remarks for the SMS printer, Mashare Clinic, Kavango, May 12, 2017 We have come here today to see one of the 39 SMS (text message) printers currently operational in Kavango East and West, at one of the 232 clinics throughout Namibia that currently uses these printers. The use of these printers …

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Early Infant Diagnosis Milestone

U.S. Ambassador Thomas F. Daughton remarks at the Early Infant Diagnosis Milestone, Nyangana Hospital, Nyangana District, Kavango Region, May 11, 2017 It is a pleasure to be here with you at Nyangana Hospital to celebrate your achievements in preventing HIV transmission from mothers to their children. And I am proud and honored that the United States government …

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Launch of the Namibia Population-Based HIV Survey (NamPHIA)

Ambassador Thomas F. Daughton remarks for the launch of the Namibia Population-Based HIV Survey (NamPHIA)  It is a great honor for me to be here today at the launch of the Namibia Population-Based HIV Survey, or NamPHIA.  For more than a decade, the American government, through the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), has …

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Ministry of Health and Social Services training on the use of respiratory protection by health care workers

Windhoek – On Monday 10 April, Deputy Minister of Health and Social Services, Juliet Kavetuna, and U.S. Ambassador Thomas Daughton attended one of the training sessions conducted by the Ministry of Health and Social Services on the use of respiratory protection by health care workers. The training was conducted by 3M and CYMOT with support …

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Challenge TB Milestone: Increased Access to TB/HIV Services

U.S. Ambassador Thomas F. Daughton at the Challenge TB Milestone: Increased Access to TB/HIV Services, Okuryangava Clinic, Windhoek, March 22, 2017 Ministry of Health and Social Services officials from the National Tuberculosis and Leprosy Program, members of the Regional and District office, health staff of this clinic, TB Community Ambassadors, patients, members of the media, …

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Useful Information on Malaria when travelling to Northern and Eastern parts of Namibia

Travelers are reminded that if travelling to the northern or eastern parts of Namibia, to please contact your health care provider to inquire about malaria prophylaxis at least one week before your travel. According to the Ministry of Health and Social Services, all regions are experiencing an increase of malaria cases. The Oshikoto Region has …

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Handover of Community-Based ART (C-BART) Clinic to Oupili Community

Remarks by U.S. Ambassador Thomas F. Daughton at the handover of Community-Based ART (C-BART) Clinic to Oupili Community Okongo District, Ohangwena Region Good morning!  During the last couple years, in my role as U.S. Ambassador I have had the opportunity to visit many places in this beautiful country, but it is truly a pleasure for me to …

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Handover of Community-Based ART (C-BART) Clinic to Omutwe-Womhunu Community

Remarks by U.S. Ambassador Thomas F. Daughton at the handover of Community-Based ART (C-BART) Clinic to Omutwe-Womhunu Community Okongo District, Ohangwena Region Good afternoon!  During the last couple years, in my role as U.S. Ambassador I have had the opportunity to visit many places in this beautiful country, but it is truly a pleasure for me to …

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World AIDS Day 2016 Commemoration

Remarks by U.S Ambassador Thomas. F. Daughton at the World AIDS Day 2016 Commemoration Vineta Sports Field, Swakopmund  Good morning!  This is the third year that I have had the pleasure to march alongside you, and I thank you for inviting me again.  It is a great honor and privilege to be here in Swakopmund for the …

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National AIDS Conference in Swakopmund

Remarks at National AIDS Conference in Swakopmund  Good morning.  It is an honor and privilege for me to be present today at the first National AIDS Conference in Namibia.  This is yet another milestone, made possible by the Ministry of Health and Social Services staff members, political leaders, partners and U.S. government staff who all contributed …

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Handover of Acceleration Plan Vehicles

Remarks by U.S. Ambassador Thomas F. Daughton at the Official Handover of Acceleration Plan Vehicles to Ministry of Health and Social Services (MoHSS) Directorate of Special Programs Good morning!  It is a real pleasure for me to be back at the Ministry of Health and Social Services today to participate in another event marking our longstanding, close cooperation …

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Katima Mulilo office opening, ARV Clinic Groundbreaking and Namibia Institute of Pathology (NIP) Laboratory Renovation

Remarks by U.S. Ambassador Thomas F. Daughton at Katima Mulilo office opening, ARV Clinic Groundbreaking and Namibia Institute of Pathology (NIP) Laboratory Renovation – Katima Mulilo Hospital  Good morning!  It is a real pleasure for me to be back at Katima Mulilo Hospital today.  My last visit here was back in February and one thing is immediately …

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Launch of Project ECHO

Remarks by U.S. Ambassador Thomas F. Daughton Launch of Project ECHO Directorate of Special Programs, MOHSS, Windhoek October 17, 2016 Good Afternoon.  I am delighted to be here with you to witness the launch of the continuation phase of Project ECHO, which stands for Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes.  Project ECHO is a unique tele-health platform and the …

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Official Handover of Prefabricated Containers – Engela District Hospital

Remarks by U.S. Ambassador Thomas F. Daughton at the Official Handover of Prefabricated Containers to Namibia Institute of Pathology (NIP) Engela District Hospital    Good morning, and thank you all for joining us today to mark an important milestone in the provision of high-quality HIV treatment to Namibians living with HIV in this district.  It’s important because …

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Official Handover of Prefabricated Containers – Onandjokwe District Hospital

Remarks by U.S. Ambassador Thomas F. Daughton at the Official Handover of Prefabricated Containers to Namibia Institute of Pathology (NIP) Onandjokwe District Hospital Good morning, and thank you all for joining us today to mark an important milestone in the provision of high-quality HIV treatment to Namibians living with HIV in this district.  It’s important because today …

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Scaling Up HIV Viral Load Testing Workshop

Remarks by U.S. Ambassador Thomas F. Daughton Official Opening of the Scaling Up HIV Viral Load Testing Workshop Safari Hotel, Windhoek September 13, 2016 Good morning!   It is a pleasure for me to welcome you to Windhoek for what I am sure will be a valuable workshop on scale-up of viral load testing.  This is the third in …

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20th HIV/AIDS Awareness Campaign

Remarks by U.S. Ambassador Thomas F. Daughton 20th HIV/AIDS Awareness Campaign at NUST Namibia University for Science and Technology Good morning! It is a real pleasure for me to be here today to join you for the 20th HIV/AIDS Awareness Campaign. The Namibia University of Science and Technology is at the forefront of shaping the …

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Official Opening of the Scaling Up HIV Viral Load Testing Workshop

Remarks by U.S. Ambassador Thomas F. Daughton for the Official Opening of the Scaling Up HIV Viral Load Testing Workshop Safari Hotel, Windhoek September 13, 2016 Good morning!   It is a pleasure for me to welcome you to Windhoek for what I am sure will be a valuable workshop on scale-up of viral load testing.  This is the third …

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Namibia to host Regional Workshop on HIV Viral Load Testing

“Scaling up HIV Viral Load Testing and uptake of the Results through Improving Efficiencies of Systems” More than 120 technical experts from 11 different African countries are expected to convene in Windhoek, Namibia on 13 September, for a four-day HIV Viral Load Testing workshop at Safari Court Hotel. Viral load testing is recommended by the …

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