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

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

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

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

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A Little Moonlight Goes a Long Way

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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HIV in 9 out of 10 Infected Children Below Detection Level

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

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United States Boosts Life-Saving Oxygen Supply at Onandjokwe Hospital

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

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

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

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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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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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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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New Outreach Materials Encourage Women at Risk to Take PrEP

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

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“I regained my life through DREAMS” – Rempie

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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CAGs bring hope to those living with HIV

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

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

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

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

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

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USAID’s Office of HIV/AIDS & the Bureau for Resilience & Food Security Private Sector Engagement for Youth Employment Request for Information

USAID’s Office of HIV/AIDS (OHA) and Bureau for Resilience and Food Security (RFS) are pleased to announce the release of the Youth Employment Request for Information (RFI). This is the first collaboration of its kind working across USAID to mobilize the private sector on behalf of employment opportunities for youth at higher risk of HIV. This RFI is …

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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VMMC Milestone & Handover Event

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

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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. 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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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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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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World AIDS Day Commemoration

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

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USAID provides N$395 million to fight HIV/AIDS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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2018 International Women’s Day Reception

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

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2017 World AIDS Day Commemoration

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

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USAID joins the world in commemorating 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence

The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) joins the world in commemorating 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence  starting today, November 25 (the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women), and ending December 10 (International Human Rights Day). USAID works to prevent and respond to instances of gender-based violence (GBV) around the globe. GBV undermines the safety, health and …

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

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

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Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) Event

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

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Launch of the National Health Report 2014/2015

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

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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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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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