Caleb Shatyohamba
Tondoro , December 20– Over 7,000 people in Kavango West are living with HIV, with 5,123 women and 2,235 men currently on antiretroviral therapy (ART), as revealed during the National World AIDS Day commemoration held on Wednesday in Tondoro.
The statistics, shared by Chief Medical Officer Beatha Siteketa, indicate that the region has recorded 7,358 HIV-positive cases. Despite the high numbers, there is cause for optimism, as the region’s HIV prevalence rate has decreased from 8.2% in 2021 to 6.9% in 2024.
Siteketa commended the progress made in the fight against HIV/AIDS, attributing it to strategic interventions and increased accessibility to free government-provided HIV services. “We are committed to ensuring all communities in the region have access to these lifesaving interventions,” she said.
One of the significant strides highlighted was the surge in the use of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), an antiretroviral medication that prevents HIV infection. In 2021, only 27 individuals accessed PrEP in Kavango West, compared to a staggering 3,105 people in 2024, demonstrating growing awareness and proactive measures among residents.
The region has also adopted strategic testing campaigns, which have contributed to the measurable decline in prevalence rates and ensured early diagnosis for those living with the virus.
The National World AIDS Day event served as a platform to reflect on the progress made and the challenges ahead. Community leaders, healthcare workers, and activists emphasized the importance of sustained efforts in prevention, testing, and treatment to achieve the goal of ending the AIDS epidemic by 2030.
With increased awareness, access to healthcare, and a continued focus on prevention, Kavango West is showcasing its commitment to combating HIV/AIDS and improving the health outcomes of its communities. -Namibia Daily News
