09/04/2026
JOINT MEDIA RELEASE
(for immediate release)
The United States and Namibia Celebrate Two Decades of Success in Namibia's HIV Response
Windhoek, 04 September 2026
In recognition of Namibia's historic achievement in reaching HIV epidemic control and surpassing global targets, the Government of the United States of America (U.S.) and the Government of the Republic of Namibia (GRN) today jointly announce a planned, phased reduction of U.S. financial assistance. Over the next year, this support will transition into a technical cooperation model as the HIV response is fully integrated into Namibia's sustainable national health system, in line with Namibia’s national laws.
This historic milestone reflects Namibia's extraordinary leadership in combating HIV/AIDS and demonstrates the country's capacity to sustain and further advance these gains through established, nationally-led systems. Notably, Namibia has emerged as a global leader, becoming one of the first nations to surpass international targets through a response that is increasingly and predominantly funded and managed by the Namibian Government. The Government of the Republic of Namibia has remained fully committed to national ownership of its HIV response by financing and procuring all antiretroviral medicines and HIV test kits over the years, ensuring uninterrupted access to life-saving treatment and diagnostic services.
The support of the United States has complemented these efforts through investments in HIV testing, counselling, community-based organisations, and other key health system interventions. As this phase of our cooperation comes to an end, both Governments reaffirm their shared commitment to building on this strong partnership to advance Namibia’s health priorities and strengthen the resilience of its health system.
Key Achievements in Namibia’s HIV Response
Namibia has made profound strides in the HIV response, including:
• Surpassing Global Targets: Achieving 96-98-98, exceeding the UNAIDS 95-95-95 fast-track targets for HIV testing, treatment, and viral suppression.
•Elimination of Mother-to-Child Transmission: Achieving near-elimination levels, with 97% of infants born to mothers living with HIV testing HIV-negative.
•Universal Treatment Access: Provision of life-saving antiretroviral therapy to over 220,000 people through Namibia's public health system.
•Systems Resilience: The development of robust national health information systems, laboratory networks, and supply chain mechanisms capable of sustaining long-term epidemic control, and
•National Expertise: The cultivation of a highly skilled Namibian workforce and technical experts who lead the design and management of the national program.
“Namibia's success story is a testament to what can be accomplished when nations work together with determination and shared purpose,” said U.S. Ambassador John Giordano. “Over two decades, we have stood side by side with the people and government of Namibia, and today we celebrate their outstanding achievements in turning the tide against HIV/AIDS.”
A Partnership Built on Shared Commitment
For over 22 years, this partnership has been defined by a shared vision led by the Namibian government. Namibia has consistently dedicated substantial domestic resources to the HIV response, representing a primary investment that constitutes a fundamental pillar of the nation's socio-economic development. This national commitment has been bolstered by significant and sustained support from the United States through the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), which has served to complement and accelerate Namibia's progress toward ending the epidemic.
The United States Government will provide US $45 million towards the HIV response and transition during U.S. fiscal year 2027, enabling the Namibian Government to implement a smooth transition of key programmatic systems. Over the same period, the Government of the Republic of Namibia reaffirms its commitment to sustaining a nationally led HIV response, guided by Namibia’s priorities, policies and legal frameworks.
“This achievement is a testament to what is possible when national vision is supported by international solidarity,” said Hon. Dr. Esperance Luvindao, Minister of Health and Social Services of Namibia. “Our collaboration with the United States has strengthened our national capacity that allows Namibia to continue driving its own HIV response. As we evolve this partnership, we remain committed to a cooperation model that respects Namibia's sovereignty and the integrity of our national health data.”
The Sustainability Roadmap
To safeguard these historic gains, the Ministry of Health and Social Services, Namibia, launched the Sustainability Roadmap for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, Tuberculosis and Malaria Control in November 2024. This Roadmap ensures that as international donor support shifts toward a technical assistance model, Namibia's health systems remain resilient and self-sufficient.
Looking Forward
The United States-Namibia partnership will continue to support shared priorities in health, grounded in the principles of transparency and mutual interest.
“This transition is a celebration of Namibia's leadership and a model for what is possible,” said Ambassador Giordano. “We are proud to have been partners in this journey, and we look forward to supporting Namibia as it continues to lead the way in controlling the HIV epidemic.”
Enquiries:
Directorate of Information and Research, Ministry of International Relations and Trade
Email: [email protected]
Namibia Press Office, U.S. Embassy in Namibia
Email: [email protected]
