22 Peace Corps Education Volunteers Swear In

Windhoek – On November 16, 2023, 22 Peace Corps Trainees were sworn-in to begin their two-year service as education Volunteers in schools around Namibia. This 52nd group of Trainees to Namibia, arrived on August 30, and just completed their 12 weeks of pre-service training in Okahandja. At the invitation of the Namibian government, Peace Corps …

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Namibian Women Help Prevent HIV and Cervical Cancer by Encouraging Their Male Partners to Get Circumcised

Christmas Shikongo is a 33-year-old father of three and a community mobilizer working to reduce HIV-related deaths in Omuhongo Village, northern Namibia.  For months, Christmas has been educating and counseling adolescent boys, men, and their partners on the health benefits of voluntary medical male circumcision (VMMC) in preventing HIV.  As he escorted some of his …

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Remarks by Ambassador Randy Berry at the Handover of 16 Vehicles to the MOHSS Clinical Mentorship Program

Good morning. Since I arrived in Namibia nearly one year ago, I have travelled widely across the country, and I have experienced what we really mean when we say this is a vast country. I have seen how rapidly the roads change from tar to gravel, and I have experienced the added time and skill …

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U.S. African Development Foundation (USADF) Call for Proposals (Closing Date: November 15, 2023)

MARKET ACCESS AND SUPPORT PROGRAMME     Call for Proposals The U.S. African Development Foundation (USADF) and the Ministry of Industrialisation and Trade of the Government of Namibia invite proposals from Namibian cooperatives, producer groups, and micro, small and medium sized enterprises (MSMEs) for grant financing and local support for innovative solutions that extend their own …

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On World Rhino Day, The U.S. Celebrates its Successful Conservation Partnership with the WWF and the Government of Namibia

The population of black rhinos declined dramatically in the 20th century at the hands of European hunters and settlers. Between 1960 and 1995, black rhino numbers dropped by a sobering 98%, to less than 2,500 individuals. Since then, the species has made a tremendous comeback from the brink of extinction. Thanks to persistent conservation efforts …

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Government-to-Government Project Equips Young Women to Start their Own Businesses

Oshakati – The United States Government together with the Ministry of Sport, Youth and National Service (MSYNS) handed over business startup kits to 55 out-of-school adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) in Oshakati, Oshana Region.  The recipients took part in Economic Strengthening training with funding from the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) …

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PEPFAR Invests N$840 Million in New USAID Program to Provide Health Services to Vulnerable Children, Adolescents, and Youth

Windhoek – The U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) will invest approximately N$840 million (US$45 million) in providing health and social services to vulnerable children, adolescents, and youth in Namibia.  This was announced by the PEPFAR Namibia Deputy Principal for USAID, Ms. Tamara Cox, who is currently visiting the Land of the Brave. …

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2023 Mandela Washington Fellow Shange-Ndamona Mungoba shares her Namibian Food Security Sustainability Strategy with U.S. Secretary of State

Shange-Ndamona Mungoba, a 2023 MWF was placed at Jackson State University (Mississippi, USA) for Business & Entrepreneurship professional development. Her cohort was made up of fellows from 23 sub-Saharan African countries, with 24 other fellows who collectively serve their communities in Agri-Business, Agri-Processing and Food Trade & Food Security initiatives. The 6-week training program was …

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Ambassador Randy Berry Visits Tsumkwe

Windhoek – U.S. Ambassador to Namibia Randy Berry traveled to Tsumkwe from August 2 to 4 to meet with community leaders, students, conservation actors, and health service providers. During his two-day visit, Ambassador Berry paid a courtesy call to the Mangetti Dune Health Centre, where he met the nurse-in-charge and tuberculosis (TB) field promoter for …

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U.S.-funded DREAMS Program Breaks Down Barriers

How young women in Katima Mulilo succeed in the field of woodwork  Namibia has one of the youngest and fastest-growing populations in southern Africa, but more than 40 percent of Namibia’s youth are unemployed – nearly three times as many as the global average – and according to the National Planning Commission of Namibia, this …

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From Onhuno with Love, Supply Chain Hero Helps Save Namibian Lives

For individuals living with chronic illnesses such as HIV, making sure that the right medicines are accessible at convenient locations is critical to successful treatment and positive health outcomes. Dedicated pharmacists and supply chain professionals like thirty-four-year-old Leena Shailemo are key to making this possible. Shailemo, who has worked as an information technology professional for …

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U.S. Global AIDS Coordinator, Ambassador Dr. John Nkengasong, Visits Namibia to Celebrate 20 Years of PEPFAR Globally

Windhoek – The United States Global AIDS Coordinator, Ambassador Dr. John Nkengasong, visited Namibia from June 17 – 20 to celebrate 20 years of The United States President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) and 18 years of saving lives in Namibia. During his three-day visit, Ambassador Dr. Nkengasong engaged with Namibian government officials and …

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Translating DREAMS into Practice

Monika was born 24 years ago in the Okahala village in the northern Omusati region of Namibia, as one of seven children, where she grew up with her father as well as with her grandparents. In 2018, she had to drop out of school at grade 9 when they refused to pay the school fees …

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Sixteen Namibian Youth Participants Selected for the 2023 Mandela Washington Fellowship Program

U.S. Embassy Namibia is proud to announce that 16 participants across eight regions in Namibia have been selected to participate in the 2023 Mandela Washington Fellowship (MWF) for Young African Leaders. Launched in 2014, the Mandela Washington Fellowship is the flagship program of the Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) and embodies the U.S. commitment to …

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Counting Chickens After They Hatch – U.S. Project Helps Young Mother’s DREAMS Come True

Four years ago, Beata Moses reached a crossroads. With a Grade-10 high school certificate and unemployed, the 20-year-old found herself trying to navigate the demands of being a young, single mother. She and the father of little Tulela had split up during pregnancy, and he provided neither emotional nor financial support for the baby girl. …

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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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U.S. Ambassador Randy Berry Visits the Erongo Region

Windhoek – U.S. Ambassador to Namibia Randy Berry traveled to the Erongo Region on April 3-5 to engage with local leaders, U.S. partners, and various communities. During his three-day visit, Ambassador Berry met with George Botshiwe, CEO of Navachab Gold Mine, to view how mining operations support Namibia’s economy. Botshiwe took Ambassador Berry for a …

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U.S. Ambassador Launches Third Cohort of the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs Program

Walvis Bay – Today, U.S. Ambassador Randy Berry launched the third cohort of the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) program in Walvis Bay. The program was first established in Namibia in November 2020 and aims to provide women with the tools needed to create and grow their own businesses, raise capital, and effectively network with …

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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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U.S. Ambassador Randy Berry Visits Cattle Country

Windhoek – In March 2023, U.S. Ambassador to Namibia, Randy W. Berry, had his first official trip to the cattle country– “a place where I felt very much at home since I grew up on a cattle ranch in the American West,” said Ambassador Berry when asked about Gobabis. After a courtesy call with Honorable Governor …

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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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U.S. Government Holds Solar Panel Installation and Sustainable Design Ceremony to Reinforce Partnership with Namibia

Windhoek – On March 9th, Ambassador Randy Berry, U.S. Ambassador to Namibia, hosted a solar panel installation and sustainable design ceremony to highlight the strides the U.S government is taking to support Namibia’s sustainability goals to lower and use of renewable energy. City of Windhoek Mayor Joseph Uapingene, government officials, members from NamPower and other …

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A graduation ceremony with a difference: Celebrating the success of keeping babies HIV-free

Smiling and singing, a group of mothers in the Oshana region are celebrating the graduation of their children. But this is no ordinary graduation. All the mothers are living with HIV, and the graduating children are just 18 months old. By taking their antiretroviral medicine consistently and correctly, the mothers have kept their infants HIV-free …

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FLOTUS’ Premier Visit to Namibia

Namibians warmly welcomed First Lady of the United States (FLOTUS) Dr. Jill Biden on her first official two-day trip in Namibia from February 22- 24, 2023. During her visit, the First Lady emphasized the importance of the partnership between the United States and Namibia, and our shared priorities in the region, including a focus on …

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FLOTUS visits HISA and PEPFAR

The First Lady of the United States of America, Dr. Jill Biden, accompanied by the First Lady of the Republic of Namibia, Monica Geingos, are welcomed with a song by men and women in their navy t-shirts and pink striped traditional attire in a room at the Hope Initiatives Southern Africa- Namibia (HISA) project on …

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Remarks by First Lady Jill Biden at a Luncheon with the President and First Lady of Namibia

Mr. President, Madame First Lady; Vice President and Mrs. Mbumba; Madame Pohamba; Distinguished leaders of Namibia’s government, businesses, and civil society: It’s my great honor to join you this afternoon. I’ve been overwhelmed by the warmth, kindness, and care that has welcomed me. It’s been such a special experience for me. So, on behalf of …

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First Lady Jill Biden to Travel to Namibia and Kenya

First Lady Jill Biden will travel to Namibia and Kenya from Wednesday, February 22nd to Sunday, February 26th to strengthen the United States’ partnerships on the African continent, and advance our shared priorities in the region. Dr. Biden’s engagements will focus on the empowerment of women and youth, efforts to address food insecurity, and promoting our shared democratic values. The visit follows the U.S.-Africa …

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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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U.S. Government-Funded DREAMS Program Hands Over 100 Tablets to Ministry of Education-Oshikoto Regional Directorate

Ondangwa – The U.S. Government funded Determined, Resilient, Empowered, AIDS free, Mentored and Safe (DREAMS) program handed over 100 tablets to the Regional Director of Education in the Oshikoto Region on December 9, 2022. The tablets are earmarked for 100 students who are DREAMS participants from various schools in the Oshikoto Region. This donation comes …

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Family Receives Birth Certificates Thanks to U.S. Government-Funded Civil Registration Campaign

It is yet another scorching hot day in Eenhana, the capital of northern Namibia’s Ohangwena Region. Dozens of people are convened under the cover of a tree for respite. Like many others present, the Hafunda family travelled 25 kilometres to Eenhana from their home in Oshikonda Village with one goal in mind – to finally …

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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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Academy for Women Entrepreneurs Graduation Ceremony

Lüderitz – On November 22, the Public Affairs Officer at the U.S. Embassy in Namibia, Tiffany Miller, officiated the graduation ceremony of the second cohort for the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE), a program that provides women with the tools needed to create and grow their own businesses, raise capital, and effectively network with other …

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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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Remarks by Chargé d’Affaires Jessica Long at the tree planting to celebrate the 20th anniversary of CDC Namibia

Good afternoon Advancing health security around the world is a key priority of the U.S. government. One of the ways we achieve this priority is through the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention opened an office in Namibia in 2002. Twenty years later, in 2022, we …

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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. Chargé d’Affaires Jessica Long’s Remarks for Tree Planting Ceremony

Good afternoon! I am so happy to highlight this milestone in our construction project, where we reintroduce the vegetation back to its environment. And I am excited to have the support of various entities here today- the Ministry of Environment and Tourism, the Ministry of International Relations and Cooperation, and the National Botanical Research Institute …

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U.S. Government Holds Tree Planting Ceremony to Reinforce Partnership with Namibia

Windhoek – On October 27, the U.S. government held a tree planting ceremony at the New Embassy Compound with Chargé d’Affaires Jessica Long. Government officials, members from the National Botanical Research Institute, and other civil society interlocuters attended the event. The new Embassy compound symbolizes the commitment of the United States of America to 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 Katie Battey, Acting CDC Namibia Country Director, at the Official Launch of the Minimum Package

Let me begin by offering my sincere congratulations on the launch of this Minimum Package of HIV and TB Services for People in Correctional Facilities and Police Holding Cells. This is a shining example of partnership and collaboration and it my great pleasure to be here today on behalf of the United States Government. The …

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Namibian Marula Oil makes it to America

Taneta Investment is a women-owned, Namibian small business established in 2015 that has created a niche as a pioneer in the production and transformation of local Marula oil into luxurious cosmetic oil. Taneta partners with local rural women to obtain kernels of the Marula fruit and combines traditional knowledge with modern technology to cold-press 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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USS Hershel “Woody” Williams (ESB 4) arrives in Walvis Bay, Namibia

Walvis Bay – The Lewis B. Puller-class expeditionary sea base USS Hershel “Woody” Williams arrived in Walvis Bay, Namibia on September 3 for a scheduled port visit. The USS Hershel “Woody” Williams is the first U.S. Navy vessel to be assigned to the United States Africa Command area of responsibility. The Chargé d’Affaires of the United …

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Remarks by Jessica Long, U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires at the USAID TradeHub Event

Good afternoon! It is a pleasure to be here with you for this event showcasing and celebrating the successes achieved through the U.S. Agency for International Development’s six-year TradeHub program. The U.S. Government prioritizes creating jobs in Namibia through growing Namibian exports to the United States and other countries, increasing U.S. investment in Namibia, and …

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USAID and Trade Industry Showcase Successes in Namibia

Windhoek – Today, the Chargé d’Affaires of the Embassy of the United States to Namibia Jessica Long and representatives of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), together with the Namibian Government, reflected on the past six years of the Southern Africa Trade and Investment Hub (USAID TradeHub).  The event in Windhoek brought together stakeholders …

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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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U.S. Under Secretary Uzra Zeya’s Travel to Namibia Concludes

Windhoek – Under Secretary for Civilian Security, Democracy, and Human Rights Uzra Zeya visited Namibia from July 21-24 where she met with senior government officials, civil society, and young leaders to discuss joint efforts to address global issues, strengthen democracy, fight human trafficking, assist refugees, and promote regional security. She met with President Geingob to …

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Namibia Achieves Top Ranking in Fight against Human Trafficking

Windhoek – Namibia achieved “Tier 1” status for its actions during 2021 in the fight against human trafficking, according to a U.S. State Department Report.  This is the third consecutive year that Trafficking in Person’s (TIP) Report ranked Namibia in the top tier, and Namibia remains the only “Tier 1” African country. Visiting U.S. Under Secretary …

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Under Secretary Zeya’s Travel to Mozambique and Namibia

Under Secretary Zeya’s Travel to Mozambique and Namibia MEDIA NOTE JULY 15, 2022 Under Secretary for Civilian Security, Democracy, and Human Rights Uzra Zeya will travel to Mozambique and Namibia from July 18-24.  During her trip, she will advance U.S.-African partnerships on food security and support for refugees and internally displaced persons, promoting respect for …

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Blazing Trails and American Barbecues: Namibia Exports World’s “Greenest Charcoal”

Windhoek – Communities across Namibia grapple with the problem of acacia bushes that encroach on their land. The invasive acacia reduces pastureland available for livestock, sucks up groundwater, and negatively impacts Namibia’s indigenous plant and animal species as it competes for natural resources. Africa Burns Charcoal, a Namibian firm, is addressing these problems, through an environmentally …

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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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Remarks by Chargé d’Affaires Jessica Long at the 2022 Mandela Washington Fellows Departure

Good afternoon, Mandela Washington Fellows! It is my pleasure to be here today to re-congratulate you on your selection for the prestigious Mandela Washington Fellowship program and to introduce you to the Namibian people. All of you should be enormously proud of your accomplishment. Congratulations. To the members of the media with us here today: …

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2022 Mandela Washington Fellows Depart for the United States

Today, a group of sixteen young Namibian leaders departed for the United States to participate in the Mandela Washington Fellowship program. The Mandela Washington Fellowship (MWF), launched in 2014, is the flagship program of former-U.S. President Barack Obama’s Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) that empowers young leaders through academic coursework, leadership training, and networking. Since …

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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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Remarks by U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Jessica Long at the Peace Corps Reinstatement Swearing In

Good morning! It is a great pleasure to have you join us here today for this special ceremony that commemorates the return to service of a dedicated Volunteer and marks the first of many to come as Peace Corps prepares to bring more groups of new Volunteers over the coming months and years. To our …

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Peace Corps Volunteer Swearing-in Ceremony First post-Covid-19 Volunteer Returns

Windhoek – On Wednesday, May 18 U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Jessica Long swore in the first of the returning Peace Corps Volunteers, who had departed due to COVID. Today’s swearing in marks the beginning of the process to build back the Peace Corps program in Namibia to the previous levels of volunteers. Crissy Hendrickson is the …

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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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Statement by Charge d’Affaires Jess Long for World Press Freedom Day

Today, on World Press Freedom Day, we celebrate the determination of Namibian journalists and media professionals who continue to be the beacons of press freedom on the African continent. In 2021 Namibia again had Africa’s freest press and ranked 24th out of 180 countries globally on the World Press Freedom Index. That is an accomplishment …

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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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Statement by U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Jess Long on Namibia’s 32nd Independence Day

On behalf of the American people, I want to extend my congratulations to His Excellency President Hage Geingob and to all Namibians on your country’s celebration of its 32nd year of independence.  The United States values the enduring partnership and friendship between our people, rooted in our mutual commitment to deepening democracy, promoting shared prosperity, and advancing human …

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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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U.S. Business Delegation Concludes Visit to Namibia

Windhoek – A U.S. business delegation wrapped up today a visit to Namibia during which they met with Namibian Vice President His Excellency Nangolo Mbumba, other government leaders, and Namibian businesses.  The two-days of senior-level meetings introduced the U.S. firms to decision makers, potential partners, and future opportunities in the construction, energy, and health industries. The …

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Largest-Ever U.S. Business Delegation to Namibia Arrives

Windhoek – On Monday morning, February 28, representatives from several major U.S. companies will begin a visit to explore investment and commercial opportunities in Namibia.  Ms. Akunna Cook, a visiting senior State Department Official responsible for the United States’ economic diplomacy for all of Africa, will lead the delegation that includes officials from the U.S. Department of …

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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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Statement by U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Jess Long for December 10 Human Rights Day

Windhoek – December 10 is Human Rights Day.  On this day in 1948 the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, a powerful document that strengthens and affirms core values that the United States and Namibia share.  Human rights – and working for and protecting them – is a foundation of the very …

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Remarks by Charge d’Affaires Jess Long at the New Embassy Compound “Topping Out” Ceremony

The new United States Embassy behind us has reached a very important milestone. Our team has successfully reached the highest point in the construction of our new home. I am very happy to be at this “Topping Out” ceremony to recognize this important achievement and what it signifies. To start with, I find it simply …

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New U.S. Embassy Compound “Topping Out” Ceremony

Windhoek – Today, the U.S. Embassy held a “Topping Out” ceremony at the new U.S. Embassy site to celebrate the construction of the new building reaching its highest point. The ceremony, hosted by the Embassy’s Chargé d’Affaires, Jess Long, and attended by the Deputy Minister of Internati onal Relations and Cooperation, Hon. Jenelly Matundu, acknowledged and congratulated …

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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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Statement by Chargé d’Affaires Jess Long on International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women on November 25

In recognition of November 25 as the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, I want to send a clear message and support all the other voices who are saying the same thing:  violence against women and girls must end now. Globally, more than one in three women experience such violence during their …

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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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U.S. Funded Project Helps HIV-Positive Families Live Decent Lives

Ndahafa is one of approximately 8,000 Namibian children living with HIV. She was diagnosed with the virus at the age of four, and since then, has been taking HIV medicine known as ART (antiretroviral therapy) at Eudafano Clinic, which is located five kilometers away from her homestead at Omatunda Village in the Ohangwena Region. A …

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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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U.S. Donates Sports Equipment through Program to Prevent HIV, Sexual Violence Among Boys

Windhoek – The U.S. Government-funded Namibia Adherence and Retention Project (NARP) donated 100 footballs, 24 whistles, two goal nets, two stop watches and 20 chess boards to Learners of the Moses van der Byl Primary School in Katutura, Windhoek, and seven other Khomas schools. This is one of seven donations to six Regional Education Offices country-wide in …

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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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U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Jessica Long Giving Remarks at the IPPR Book Launch “Keep Your Eyes on the Money”

Good morning, and thank you IPPR, for inviting me to speak at the launch of your book on fiscal transparency in Namibia – Keep Your Eyes on the Money. Congratulations to the IPPR team for completing this important project highlighting the role the public can play in improving budget transparency and accountability. Also, thanks to …

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U.S. Deputy Special Presidential Envoy for Climate Visits Namibia to Advance Mutual Goals in Climate Change and Clean Energy

Windhoek – A delegation focused on climate change and clean energy met today with Namibian government officials and civil society to encourage U.S.-Namibia partnership on clean energy development and combating the climate crisis. The delegation is led by Deputy Special Envoy for Climate (Deputy SEC) Jonathan Pershing, who reports to John Kerry, the first-ever Special …

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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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U.S. Applauds Launch of New Container Security Program at Walvis Bay Port

Windhoek – Today, the Namibian Revenue Authority officially launched the Container Control Programme at Walvis Bay Port.  The program will improve the port’s ability to interdict illegally smuggled goods, including wildlife and forest products. The United States government is funding the US$720,000 program, which the UN’s Office of Drugs and Crime (UNODC) will implement with the Walvis …

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Remarks by Chargé d’Affaires, Jessica Long – USS Hershel “Woody” Williams visits Walvis Bay

I would like to begin by thanking our distinguished guests for attending today. I would particularly like to thank the Namibian Minister of Defence and Veterans Affairs, the Honorable Frans Kapofi for being in attendance. I would also like to thank Captain Chad Graham and his crew for hosting us onboard the USS Hershel “Woody” …

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USS Hershel “Woody” Williams Makes Inaugural Visit to Port of Walvis Bay

Walvis Bay – The USS Hershel “Woody” Williams arrived in the port of Walvis Bay on September 16th for a three-day visit to conduct joint exchanges with the Namibian Defence Force and to welcome Namibia’s military leadership to an onboard reception. The USS Hershel “Woody” Williams is a Lewis B. Puller-class expeditionary sea base (ESB). The vessel docked at Walvis Bay as a part of a deployment, which has taken …

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No-Means-No Instructors Train Young Women to Protect Themselves Against GBV

Windhoek – The U.S. government-funded DREAMS Program has recently certified 23 young Namibian women as No-Means-No instructors to train adolescent girls in techniques to protect themselves against gender-based violence (GBV). The training strengthens self-esteem in young women and includes exercises in self-defense. “The No-Means-No instructors will play a pivotal role in addressing violence against children and gender-based …

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U.S. Congressional Delegation Visits Namibia, Meets President to Advance U.S.-Namibia Cooperation

Windhoek – A delegation of six Congressmembers from the U.S. House of Representatives met today with President Geingob to encourage U.S.-Namibia partnership on global health, security, bilateral trade, climate change, racial justice, and other priorities that the two democracies share. The delegation is led by Congressmember Karen Bass of California, who is the Chair of the House …

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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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Namibia Retains Tier 1 Ranking on U.S. Trafficking in Persons Report

Windhoek – The Government of Namibia retained its status as a Tier 1 country in the 2021 Trafficking in Persons (TIP) report for the second year in a row for prohibiting severe forms of trafficking in persons and punishing acts of trafficking.  Namibia is again the only country in Africa to achieve a Tier 1 ranking, …

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U.S. Project Helps Namibian Children in Need

It is not a hot day, but the sun is striking a bright reflection from the white sandy soils of the village at the outskirts of Oshakati, a town in northern Namibia. Standing by her mother, almost leaning over her lap, is her little daughter. The girl’s feet are pale white from the dust she …

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A Message from U.S. Ambassador to Namibia Lisa Johnson on her Departure and on July 4th, U.S. Independence Day

My time as U.S. Ambassador here is coming to an end after nearly three and a half years; in fact, today is my last day as Ambassador. I will be returning to Washington, D.C. to serve in the Biden-Harris Administration where I will help to advance those democratic principles that Namibians and Americans care about …

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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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U.S. Government Provides Food to Namibians Most Affected by Drought and COVID-19

Oshakati – The U.S. government has provided food aid since February to more than 10,000 Namibian families in drought-stricken areas already suffering from the economic challenges due to COVID-19.  The food is primarily going to households with children affected by HIV as well as people at risk of contracting HIV in 10 regions: Karas, Erongo, Otjikoto, Ohangwena, …

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Remarks by Deputy Chief of Mission Jessica Long – USAID Food Voucher Distribution Oshakati

Thank you very much for the warm welcome and the opportunity to be here with you this morning to learn more about this innovative approach to ensure the food security of those who are most vulnerable and in need. The U.S. government is committed to ensuring we sustain the gains we have made in controlling …

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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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Namibia Launches AGOA Strategy to Increase Tariff-Free Exports to the United States

Windhoek – Today, U.S. Ambassador Lisa Johnson joined Minister of Industrialisation and Trade Lucia Iipumbu to officially launch Namibia’s African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) Utilization Strategy. The strategy seeks to increase Namibia’s exports under the AGOA program, which allows Namibia to export over 6,400 products tariff-free to the United States. This joint effort to …

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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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Statement by U.S. Ambassador Lisa Johnson in support of May 3 World Press Freedom Day

Windhoek  – On World Press Freedom Day, I want to voice my support for the principle of press freedom, as well as my support for the journalists and media professionals who use that freedom to improve our societies. Freedom of the press is a foundational principle of democratic countries, like Namibia and the United States.  It has been …

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The United States, Namibia, and Botswana Advance a Clean Energy Future in Southern Africa through “Mega Solar”

Windhoek – On April 22-23, President Biden hosted a virtual Leaders Summit on Climate to catalyze global ambition to address the climate crisis. The Summit convened world leaders to galvanize efforts to keep the vital goal of limiting warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius within reach. The Biden-Harris Administration selected the Mega Solar Project as an outcome of …

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Namibia Exports First 350 Tons of Charcoal to United States

Windhoek – On Friday, U.S. Ambassador Lisa Johnson joined the Deputy Minister of Industrialisation and Trade Honorable Verna Sinimbo to send off a 350-ton consignment of Namibian charcoal to the United States. The export deal, between Africa Burns Charcoal, King Charcoal, and their U.S. trading partner The Good Charcoal Company, is supported by the U.S. …

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High Level Visit to U.S.-Funded Project: Head of UNAIDS Meets DREAMS Girls

Windhoek – The Executive Director of the Joint United Nations Program on HIV and AIDS (UNAIDS), Winnie Byanyima, recently visited beneficiaries of the U.S.-funded DREAMS project in Namibia. DREAMS stands for Determined, Resilient, Empowered, AIDS-free, Mentored and Safe and helps empower adolescent girls and young women and protect them from contracting HIV. Together with U.S. …

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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. Chargé d’Affaires Jessica Long in Recognition of Namibia’s 31st Independence Anniversary

Windhoek – On behalf of the Embassy and the people of the United States, I would like to congratulate all Namibians as you celebrate the 31st anniversary of Namibia’s independence.  The United States values its strong partnership with Namibia over the past 31 years.  Together we have confronted challenge after challenge, including the COVID-19 pandemic, the …

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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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Public Announcement on Availability of Disability Program Funding

The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) through the Bureau for Development, Democracy and Innovation’s Inclusive Development Hub (DDI/ID) is inviting all interested USAID Missions to apply for FY20 Disability Funding to support programming in the area of Employment and Economic Empowerment (EEE). Approximately $7 million is available for this Mission-wide, competitive program (subject to …

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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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Statement and Audio Recording by U.S. Ambassador Lisa Johnson on Human Trafficking Awareness Day, January 11

Windhoek – Today, January 11, is Human Trafficking Awareness Day.  I want to voice my support for the work that Namibia and the United States together have undertaken in fighting this terrible cruelty.  Human trafficking is an international crime of the absolute worst kind, as it is a violation of a person’s most basic human rights.  …

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United States Hands Over Three New Vehicles to the Namibia Institute of Pathology

Windhoek – The U.S. Embassy has handed over three Toyota Hilux Double Cab vehicles to the Namibia Institute of Pathology (NIP), allowing the NIP to ensure quality HIV testing at regional laboratories. The value of the vehicles is N$1,716,000 (N$572,000 per vehicle). Quality assurance visits verify that testing conducted in all NIP laboratories across the country …

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Statement by U.S. Ambassador Lisa Johnson in Recognition of Human Rights Day

Windhoek – In recognition of Human Rights Day on December 10, I want to voice my support for the important principles that this day represents.  Human rights are what give strength to Namibia, the United States, and all other democratic societies that share our values. As the U.S. Ambassador, I deeply respect the way that fundamental …

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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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Number of Namibians Studying in the U.S. Increases 80% in Last Five Years

Windhoek – 121 Namibian students are currently studying at U.S. universities and colleges, an increase of over 80% in the last five years, according to the U.S. Embassy’s EducationUSA office. The data, released in the annual “Open Doors Report” by the U.S. Department of State, showed that the number of Namibian students in the United …

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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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U.S. Ambassador Launches the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs Program

Windhoek – On November 18, U.S. Ambassador Lisa Johnson officially launched the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) program in Namibia. The program was established in 2019 and provides women with the tools needed to create and grow their own businesses, raise capital, and effectively network with other successful business owners. The first cohort for 2020 …

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Young Women Graduate as Ambassadors for U.S.-funded DREAMS program

Windhoek – Thirty-two young women have graduated as the first DREAMS Ambassadors in Namibia for the U.S. government-funded DREAMS program. The DREAMS program supports adolescent girls and young women between 10 and 24 years of age as well as their parents or caregivers and sexual partners to prevent new HIV infections through education in reproductive …

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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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Namibia Tracking Down Last HIV Hotspots with Four New Cars from U.S. Embassy

Windhoek – As part of the effort to expand HIV services in Namibia, the U.S. Embassy in Namibia has provided two Toyota Hiluxes and two Toyota Land Cruisers to NGO partner Development Aid from People to People (DAPP Namibia). DAPP Namibia, a local NGO that partners with the U.S. Embassy’s PEPFAR program and the Ministry of …

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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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U.S. Government Partners with Namibian Police on Arrests in Pangolin Trafficking Case

During a first of its kind cooperation between U.S. Law Enforcement and the Namibian Police (Nampol), four suspected pangolin traffickers were arrested on July 21 in Namibia. Time-sensitive information received by the Homeland Security Investigations office in Pretoria relating to an imminent dealing by criminals in the illegal sale of a live pangolin was passed …

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U.S. Ambassador Hosts Groundbreaking Ceremony for New U.S. Embassy Campus

Windhoek – U.S. Ambassador Lisa A. Johnson welcomed Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Namibia, Honourable Jenelly Matundu, and Mayor of Windhoek, Her Worship Fransina Kahungu to the site of the new U.S. Embassy Campus in Klein Windhoek for a historic groundbreaking ceremony today.  Ambassador Johnson introduced to Deputy Minister Matundu and Mayor Kahungu …

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Young Women Launch Face Mask Tailoring Business through U.S. DREAMS Program

Windhoek, July 14 – Seven young women are launching their own tailoring business with the support of the U.S. government-funded DREAMS project. Today, the seven entrepreneurs delivered 300 face masks to Project Hope for use in Safe Spaces around Windhoek. Safe Spaces are locations at schools or in the community where adolescent girls and young …

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Namibia Upgraded to Tier 1 Country in Trafficking in Persons Report

The Government of Namibia has been upgraded to a Tier 1 country in the 2020 Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Report for fully meeting the minimum standards for the elimination of human trafficking.  Namibia is the only country in Africa to achieve a Tier 1 ranking this year, joining 34 nations globally. The TIP report, compiled …

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United States Government-Funded Food Distribution Continues During COVID-19 Emergency

The United States Government through the World Food Program (WFP) continues to deliver food assistance during the COVID-19 state of emergency.  The U.S. Embassy in Windhoek previously announced $8.6 million USD in food assistance to Namibians affected by the drought. Beneficiaries and staff distributing maize meal, beans, and vegetable oil are limiting the risk of …

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U.S. Hands Over to MEFT Two Land Cruisers for Anti-Poaching in Waterberg

Windhoek – The U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) handed over on May 18 two Toyota Land Cruisers to the Namibian Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism (MEFT). One of the vehicles will be based at the Waterberg Law Enforcement Training Centre where it will be used for training purposes.  The other vehicle will be used …

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Construction of New U.S. Embassy Campus in Windhoek

The United States is making a new commitment to the relationship between Namibia and America. We are building a modern, state-of-the-art U.S. Embassy that will be a platform for our partnership with Namibians on everything from health to economic growth to our shared belief in democratic principles. The projected move-in date is 2023. To apply …

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Statement on Construction of the New U.S. Embassy

Environmental sustainability has been a cornerstone element of the design process for the U.S. Embassy new facility in Klein Windhoek. We have ensured the new embassy compound will include renewable energy through solar panels, minimize water usage, and incorporate indigenous trees and plants, including as much as possible some currently on the site. This week, …

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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: 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. Ambassador Congratulates Namibians and President Geingob on March 21

The U.S. Ambassador to Namibia, Lisa Johnson, offers her congratulations to His Excellency President Hage Geingob and the people of Namibia on the 30th anniversary of Namibia’s independence. “Namibia’s 30-year tradition of pluralistic democracy, commitment to human rights, and respect for freedoms is indeed worth celebrating.  These shared democratic values are the foundation of our …

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President Donald Trump Congratulates President Hage Geingob on Independence Milestone

U.S. President Donald J. Trump sent a written message of congratulations to Namibian President His Excellency Hage Geingob and the Namibian people on the occasion of Namibia’s 30th anniversary of independence. In the message, President Trump said that Namibia’s strong democratic traditions were evident in its peaceful national elections last year and that Namibia’s continued …

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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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Remarks by Ambassador Lisa Johnson at MeatCo’s Launch of Beef Exportation to the U.S.

Good Morning!  Thank you for inviting me to join you here today. On behalf of the United States, I would like to extend heartfelt congratulations to MeatCo on the dispatch of your first consignment of Namibian beef to the United States. MeatCo’s high-quality beef product has enabled Namibia to become the first country in Africa …

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United States Expands Drought Relief Food Assistance to Six More Regions

Ondangwa  – U.S. Ambassador Lisa Johnson and Prime Minister Saara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila joined the UN World Food Programme (WFP) in Oshana Region on February 17, 2020 to deliver more than 85 tons of maize meal, beans, and vegetable oil to more than 12,000 vulnerable Namibians that are affected by the drought. This food delivery forms part …

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Remarks by Ambassador Lisa Johnson at the Drought Assistance Food Delivery, Oshana Region

Good morning! It is a pleasure to be here today together with the Honorable Prime Minister and the United Nations World Food Program to see the expansion of U.S. provided food assistance to an additional six regions.  This assistance began in December in Kavango East and West regions and now will also support those most …

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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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USFWS deliver Wildlife Trafficking Cybercrime Training Program with Namibian Law Enforcement

Windhoek – From January 27-31, 2020 the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (USFWS) in partnership with the U.S. Department of State, conducted a Wildlife Trafficking Cybercrime Training Program (WTCP) in Windhoek, Namibia. The purpose of the training is to strengthen global law enforcement relationships through the sharing of information related to the collection-preservation-examination-investigation of digital …

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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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United States Begins Distribution of Food Assistance in Kavango

Rundu – Yesterday, U.S. Ambassador Lisa Johnson joined the UN World Food Programme, the Honorable Governor of Kavango East, and the Office of the Prime Minister to deliver several tons of maize meal, beans, vegetable oil, and salt to Namibians among those hit worst by the drought.  This is the first  food assistance of a …

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Remarks by U.S. Ambassador Lisa Johnson at the Drought Assistance Food Delivery

Good morning!  It is a pleasure to be here today with the Honorable Governor and the United Nations World Food Programme.  I am happy to announce that we are beginning the distribution of the U.S. food assistance to Namibian families suffering from the worst effects of the drought. What you see today is the first …

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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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Congratulations on Namibia’s Elections

The United States congratulates the Republic of Namibia and its citizens on a successful and peaceful election, further strengthening Namibia’s vibrant democracy. Since Namibia’s independence in 1990, the United States has supported the country’s democratic processes, institutions, and traditions. We congratulate President Geingob on his re-election and look forward to another five years of cooperation …

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U.S. Embassy Celebrates Namibia’s Democratic Traditions through Observation Mission

U.S. Ambassador Lisa Johnson and U.S. Embassy representatives will celebrate Namibia’s democratic traditions as accredited observers at the polls this Wednesday, November 27.  “Participating in the electoral observation mission is the U.S. Embassy’s way to show support for Namibia’s election and join Namibia in celebrating its commitment to participatory democracy,” said Ambassador Johnson. The Electoral …

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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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Namibia Institute for Democracy Empowers Local Civil Society Organisations

Windhoek – The Namibia Institute for Democracy (NID), in partnership with US Embassy Namibia, conducted a Civil Society Support Program (CSSP) for local non-governmental organizations (NGOs) which was held end September until the start of November at the House of Democracy. The intervention targeted 20 Namibian NGOs that struggle with funding and need institutional as …

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Highest ranking U.S. official on energy visits Southern Africa

Windhoek – Assistant Secretary of State for the Bureau of Energy Resources (ENR) Francis R. Fannon visited Sub-Saharan Africa from November 2 to 9, 2019, including South Africa, Namibia, and Botswana.  While in Namibia Assistant Secretary Fannon engaged with the government to strengthen government-to-government relationships on mines and energy and also met with business leaders. …

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U.S. Africa Command train Namibians in Explosive Ordnance Disposal

Otavi – U.S. Africa Command recently facilitated the training of 15 Namibian personnel in the identification and disposal of unexploded ordnance as part of the U.S. Government’s Humanitarian Mine Action (HMA) program. Training was provided to 10 members of the Namibian Defense Force (NDF) and 5 members of the Namibian Police (NAMPOL). The training took …

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30 New U.S. Peace Corps Volunteers to Partner on Education Throughout Namibia as Group 50

Okahandja – 30 new U.S. Peace Corps volunteers joined local communities throughout Namibia last week to begin two-year assignments to strengthen education across the country.  The 30 volunteers will work shoulder-to-shoulder with local communities and schools in all 14 regions for the next 24 months. The Peace Corps is a volunteer program of the United …

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U.S. Donates Land Cruisers to Support Fight Against Wildlife Trafficking

Windhoek – United States Ambassador Lisa Johnson handed over two Toyota Land Cruisers to the project “Combating Wildlife Trafficking in Namibia”, a project managed by the Namibia Nature Foundation (NNF).  One vehicle will be used by NNF in the Windhoek area and the other by the Ministry of Environment and Tourism in Kunene. The project …

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U.S. Donates Additional US$1 Million in Food Assistance

Windhoek – The U.S. Government is increasing its food assistance to Namibia through a US$1 million (N$15 million) contribution to the United Nations World Food Programme. This is in addition to the US$7.6 million in drought relief announced by U.S. Ambassador Lisa Johnson alongside His Excellency President Geingob in September, and the US$100,000 in water …

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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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U.S. Ambassador: Together, We Must Save Namibia’s Rhinos

Khorixas – In celebration of World Rhino Day, U.S. Ambassador Lisa Johnson joined the Namibian Ministry of Environment and Tourism and the World Wildlife Fund to call for protection of Namibia’s rhinoceros population.  “Together, we must save Namibia’s rhinos from illegal poaching,” she said in Khorixas at a ceremony to mark Rhino Day, which occurs …

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Remarks by U.S. Ambassador Lisa Johnson at the World Rhino Day Celebration

I am very happy to be here today with you all to celebrate World Rhino Day.  Many of you here are those who are responsible for protecting Namibia’s natural resources, including its rhinos, and you are to be congratulated on the Kunene region’s remarkable success in doing so in recent years. Wildlife trafficking is a …

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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 AGOA Public Launch

One of my top priorities as U.S. Ambassador is to increase U.S.-Namibia trade and investment in order to create prosperity for both our countries. Since 2000, the African Growth and Opportunity Act, known as AGOA has served as the cornerstone of U.S. economic engagement with Africa. AGOA has helped create hundreds of thousands of jobs …

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US$7.6 Million in Food Assistance to Counter Drought Hardship

Windhoek – To alleviate the hardship brought on by the drought, the U.S. government has donated US$7.6 million worth of food assistance for some of Namibia’s most vulnerable populations. The donation is funded by the United States President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) and is in addition to the US$81.4 million in PEPFAR funding …

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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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Press Briefing on Prosper Africa by U.S. Ambassador Lisa Johnson

U.S. Ambassador Lisa Johnson discussed Prosper Africa, the U.S. Government’s new initiative to substantially increase two-way trade and investment between the United States and Africa, with journalists on Friday July 12, 2019. This whole-of-government approach unlocks opportunities to do business in Africa, benefiting companies, investors, and workers both in Africa and the United States. Ambassador …

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Remarks by U.S. Ambassador Lisa Johnson at Fourth of July Celebration

Good afternoon, and welcome! Today, I am delighted to celebrate the 243rd anniversary of the Independence of the United States of America among friends here in Namibia. You honor us by joining us.  Thank you. I also want to thank the Old Wheelers Club for the fantastic venue and food, and our sponsors for their …

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Visit to Namibia by Matthew Harrington, U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs

Scroll down for full remarks by U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs. Windhoek – The U.S. Department of State’s Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs, Matthew Harrington, visited Namibia during the week of June 17-21, with engagements covering the broad U.S.-Namibia partnership.  DAS Harrington served as the Deputy Chief of …

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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 U.S. Peace Corps Group 49 Swearing-In Ceremony

Good morning!  It is a great pleasure to be in Okahandja again to swear in the next generation of U.S. Peace Corps Volunteers in Namibia, and also to convey America’s appreciation for the support this community provides to the Peace Corps. To the Group 49 Trainees, it is wonderful to see you again and I …

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DREAMS Educational Empowerment Program Starts at 16 Schools in Oshikoto Region

Oniipa – As part of the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) together with the Namibian Government launched the DREAMS STEM Educational Empowerment Program for 16 schools in the Oshikoto Region at Hans Daniel Namuhuja Secondary School on 05 June 2019. DREAMS (Determined, Resilient, Empowered, …

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U.S. Government Avails N$1.4 Million in Immediate Drought Assistance

Windhoek – On 27 May 2019, the United States Ambassador to Namibia, Lisa A. Johnson, announced US$100,000 (N$1.44 million) in immediate drought assistance for Namibia from USAID’s Office for Disaster Assistance (OFDA).  The funds will be used for humanitarian disaster relief with water, sanitation, and hygiene interventions to be provided by the Namibia Red Cross …

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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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African Center for Strategic Studies’ Whole-of-Africa Maritime Dialogue

I would like to join with others in welcoming you to the Africa Center for Strategic Studies’ Whole-of-Africa Maritime Dialogue.  My name is Peter Lord, and I am the Deputy Chief of Mission at the U.S. Embassy here in Windhoek. The United States has long been committed to working with Africa to help African states …

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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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TIP National Referral Mechanism Launch

Remarks by U.S. Ambassador Lisa Johnson at the TIP National Referral Mechanism Launch Good morning, and thank you for inviting me to join you for the launch of the Trafficking in Persons National Referral Mechanism and awareness-raising campaign. I am honored to join the Namibian government as it launches a key component of the Combatting …

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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 at International Women’s Day by U.S. Ambassador Lisa Johnson

Good morning, and thank you for inviting me to join you in celebration of International Women’s Day. Each of us is here today because we know that empowering women – economically, politically, and socially – is essential to creating sustainable and prosperous societies.  We strongly support Namibia’s theme for this year’s Women’s Day, “empowering people …

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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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Regional Judiciary and Prosecutor Workshop under USAID’s Combating Wildlife Crime Program

Thank you for inviting me to join you here today. Please allow me to begin by acknowledging the important work you all do to safeguard the rule of law across southern Africa and to recognize its linkage to the global wildlife context. Illegal wildlife trade and other forms of transnational organized crime are a critical …

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U.S. Embassy brings DEA to workshop with Namibian Drug Enforcement Division officials

Windhoek – The U.S. Embassy Regional Security Office and U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) recently offered a workshop to the Namibian Police Force-Drug Enforcement Division which included a regional overview and a discussion of drug trafficking trends. The DEA also provided drug testing kits to the Drug Enforcement Division. The workshop was attended by 28 …

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United States Embassy handover of binoculars to Minister of Environment and Tourism

Windhoek – The U.S. Embassy provided the Namibian Ministry of Environment and Tourism N$6.8 million of equipment funded through the U.S. Foreign Military Financing Program (FMFP) for biodiversity to be used in Namibia’s anti-poaching efforts. These 65 pairs of low-light binoculars are the first items to be delivered. Other items arriving over the next couple …

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Remarks by U.S. Ambassador Lisa Johnson opening the OMD2030 HUB Market and Community Center

Oranjemund – I’m happy to see such a great turnout for the opening of the OMD2030 Hub Market and Community Center. This project, as many of you know, was supported with funds from the U.S. Embassy through the Ambassador’s Self-Help Fund. The Self-Help Program allows the United States to respond directly to the needs of …

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U.S. Embassy to Celebrate Black History Month

The U.S. Embassy’s Public Affairs Section is celebrating Black History Month with educational and cultural events during the month of February. The programs will be held at the American Cultural Center on Independence Avenue, at the Sanlam Centre, Third Floor (3rd) in Windhoek. Entrance is free and open to the public. Speakers Program: In honoring …

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U.S. Embassy grant to Sister Namibia to challenge gender-based violence

The U.S. Embassy awarded Sister Namibia with a grant for US $20,000 (N$280,000) to address gender-based violence (GBV) through discussion and dialoguing around gender norms. In recognition of the global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence Campaign, U.S. Ambassador to Namibia Lisa Johnson recently met with Sister Namibia Acting Director Laura Sasman to congratulate …

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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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Launch of Wildlife and Forest Crime Analytic Toolkit

Background information for the implementation of the ICCWC Toolkit and ICCWC Indicator Framework in Namibia (PDF 335 KB) Good morning! I am happy to be a part of this launch of a new project that will help Namibia in its strong efforts to fight wildlife crime. Under the leadership of the Honorable Minister of Environment and Tourism, Pohamba Shifeta, and through collaboration with police, prosecutors, magistrates, the ACC, NGOs, and communities, Namibia is …

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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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PEPFAR Small Grants Handover Ceremony

Thank you all for being at this very important event. Today, we will highlight three organizations that have secured funding from the PEPFAR Small Grants Program. These organizations, based in your communities, are working to support the Ministry of Health and Social Services by bringing additional HIV services to you through community mobilization. For the …

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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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Remarks by the DCM to open TechCamp Namibia

I want to begin by thanking you for participating in TechCamp Namibia. To our regional SADC friends and to our international trainers and experts: thank you for coming to Windhoek. To the large number of Namibians here: thank you for attending and representing such a wide spectrum of local interests. Thank you also to the …

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Remarks: U.S. Ambassador Lisa Johnson at the Inauguration of MET Dog Unit

Waterberg Anti-Poaching Training Center Thanks to the leadership of the Honorable Minister of Environment and Tourism Pohamba Shifeta, Namibia continues to be a model for conservation in the region. Namibia has had great success in combating poaching in recent years, including through the highly successful community-based conservation program, the rhino custodian program, and other collaborative …

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Remarks by U.S. Ambassador Lisa Johnson at the NUST HIV/AIDS Awareness Campaign

Today marks the first day of the 2018 Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST) HIV/AIDS Wellness Campaign. I trust that all of you have heard a lot about HIV before today.  So I hope you already are well-equipped with information about how you can protect yourselves from contracting HIV, what to do if you …

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Remarks by U.S. Ambassador Lisa Johnson at the Voluntary Medical Male Circumcision (VMMC) Milestone Event

35,000 Clients Reached with Private Sector Support for Voluntary Medical Male Circumcision (VMMC) Through the leadership of the Honorable Minister of Health and Social Services, Dr. Bernard Haufiku, Namibia has made great strides in the fight against HIV/AIDS, establishing itself as a global leader. The recent NAMPHIA data are clear testimony to this great achievement …

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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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Remarks by U.S. Ambassador Lisa Johnson at Fourth of July Celebration

Good evening, and welcome!  Some of you here may have enjoyed Fourth of July celebrations in the United States, where Americans decorate their homes and streets with red, white, and blue flags and gather as communities to celebrate with picnics, parades, and fireworks. Today, I am delighted to celebrate the 242nd anniversary of U.S. Independence …

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U.S. Africa Command trains Namibians in explosive ordnance disposal

U.S. Africa Command recently facilitated the training of 15 Namibian personnel in the disposal of explosive ordnances as part of the U.S. Government’s Humanitarian Mine Action (HMA) program. Training was provided to 10 members of the Namibian Defense Force (NDF) and 5 members of the Namibian Police (NAMPOL). All 5 NAMPOL students were female. The …

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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 Forest Service Conducts Incident Command Systems Training

Windhoek – The U.S. Embassy in Windhoek facilitated a visit by instructors and experts from the U.S. Forest Service and Cape Town Fire and Rescue Service from March 19-23, 2018.  Over 25 personnel from the Windhoek Emergency Management Division participated in the specialty training over a period of five days.  This is the third such …

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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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U.S. Embassy brings U.S. Fish and Wildlife Expert Speaker in collaboration with NAMPOL Officials

Windhoek – The U.S. Embassy Regional Security Office recently accompanied the Regional U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) Attaché and an experienced FWS Investigator on a speaker program in the North of Namibia focused on Wildlife Trafficking Investigations.  The target audience was Namibian Police Force (NAMPOL) officers stationed at regional headquarters in Kamanjab, Rundu, and …

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PEPFAR Namibia Stakeholder Engagement Meeting

Remarks of U.S. Ambassador Thomas F. Daughton at the PEPFAR Namibia Stakeholder Engagement Meeting  Colleagues and partners in the fight against HIV and AIDS in Namibia, ladies and gentlemen, good morning! Welcome to the latest in our regular series of PEPFAR Namibia stakeholder engagement meetings.  I am very happy to see all of you, including …

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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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Peace Corps Swearing-In Ceremony

Remarks by Deputy Chief of Mission Peter Lord at the Peace Corps Swearing-In Ceremony, Andreas Kukuri Centre, Okahandja Good morning!  It is a great pleasure for me to be here today to swear in another generation of Peace Corps Volunteers in Namibia. The 46 Volunteers here today have pledged to give their most precious resource – …

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Handover of Nkurenkuru Health Centre and Nankudu ART Clinic Upgrades

Remarks by Ambassador Thomas F. Daughton for the handover of Nkurenkuru Health Centre and Nankudu ART Clinic Upgrades Nankudu District, Kavango West Region Good morning! Early this year, the U.S. Government through the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief, or PEPFAR, committed itself to provide improved antiretroviral treatment clinic spaces for the communities served by …

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2nd Annual HIV/AIDS Awareness Campaign

U.S. Ambassador Thomas F. Daughton remarks to the 2nd Annual HIV/AIDS Awareness Campaign  Good morning!  It is a real pleasure for me to be here again today to help commemorate the second HIV/AIDS awareness week at the Namibia University of Science and Technology.  I’m particularly pleased that the theme for this year’s awareness week is …

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Graduation of Community Health Workers

Ms. Michele Russell, Acting Country Representative, USAID Namibia Remarks at Graduation of Community Health Workers Regional Council Hall, Outapi, Omusati Region On behalf of USAID and the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief, PEPFAR, I thank you for the opportunity to address you at this wonderful occasion – an occasion that can make us …

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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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Launch of the District Health Information System Version 2

Remarks of U.S. Ambassador Thomas F. Daughton at the Launch of the District Health Information System Version 2  Good morning!  I have said it before and I will say it again: Namibia’s response to the HIV epidemic is data-driven and always has been.  Today we get another opportunity to see proof of that statement with the …

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Remarks by U.S. Ambassador Thomas F. Daughton at Fourth of July Celebration

Good evening and thank you for joining us to celebrate the 241st anniversary of American independence.  This is the third and, I expect, the final Independence Day that I will have the honor to address all of you as the U.S. ambassador to Namibia.  It has been nearly three years since my wife, Mindy, and …

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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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Milestone of 750 People Living With HIV receiving ARV Medication through Refill Groups

U.S. Ambassador Thomas F. Daughton remarks on the Milestone of 750 People Living with HIV receiving ARV Medication through Refill Groups Onandjamba Village, Onyaanya Constituency, Oshikoto It is a great honor for me to be here in Onandjamba today to celebrate an important milestone on the road to controlling the HIV epidemic in Namibia. For …

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NamWater Receives Eight Water Tanker Trucks as Part of U.S. Government Drought Relief Assistance for Namibia

Windhoek – On 24 May 2017, United States Ambassador Thomas F. Daughton handed over the first of eight water tanker trucks to NamWater, through the Ministry of Agriculture, Water & Forestry, as part of the U.S. government’s current drought assistance to Namibia. Following President Hage Geingob’s state of emergency declaration last year, these off-road (6×6) …

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Your Voice: Keeping Babies HIV-Free

Windhoek – Squinting in the hot northern Namibian sun, a man smartly dressed in a nurse’s uniform greets us with a warm smile. Rightwell Zulu, or “Dr. Zulu,” as he is affectionately called by his colleagues, is a nurse mentor at Nyangana District Hospital in Namibia. Zulu, together with his colleagues, Veronika Shivute and Felistas …

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Handover of Water Tanker Trucks

U.S. Ambassador Thomas F. Daughton at Handover of Water Tanker Trucks NamWater Depot, Windhoek – May 24, 2017 Good morning! They say that water is life, and no one knows that better than the people of Namibia. Namibia is the driest country south of the Sahara even in normal circumstances, and we all know that Namibia has suffered …

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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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American Cultural Center donates education magazines to libraries

The U.S. Embassy’s American Cultural Center (ACC) this week donated periodical materials to Namibian libraries and institutions to promote reading, assist learners in their school projects, and support research. Donated materials include Time magazine, The New Yorker, Kids Discovery, African Business, Forbes, and Popular Science. The entire 2016 collection of more than 30 titles was …

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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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U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Director, Daniel M. Ashe, meets with the Minister of Environment and Tourism Pohamba Shifeta

The Director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Daniel M. Ashe, met with the Minister of Environment and Tourism Pohamba Shifeta on October 12 in Windhoek.  The two discussed wildlife conservation and anti-poaching efforts in Namibia with a focus on Namibia’s community conservancy model.  During his visit, Director Ashe visited Namibia’s Etosha National Park, …

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