On 20 June 2024, the World Well being Group (WHO) Consultant to Namibia, Dr. Richard Banda paid a courtesy go to to the Minister of Well being and Social Providers, Honorable Dr. Kalumbi Shangula. The assembly aimed to cement the present partnership between the Ministry of Well being and Social Providers and WHO below the brand new management and affirm commitments to making sure well being for all.
Honorable Dr. Shangula warmly welcomed Dr. Banda to Namibia, highlighting the shut partnership between the Ministry of Well being and Social Providers (MoHSS) and WHO. He applauded WHO for its unwavering help to the ministry, saying that “as a ministry, we’re actively engaged and taking part in WHO work. We take part in numerous consultations with WHO relating to the evaluate of the Worldwide Well being Laws and the drafting Pandemic Accord amongst others”.
Throughout the assembly, Dr. Banda commented the Authorities of Namibia for the large progress in addressing to public well being points. “Now we have seen exceptional progress within the HIV response, with the nation reaching the 90-90-90 targets. We are actually aiming for the 95-95-95 goal. If saved on observe, Namibia will have the ability to finish AIDS by 2030 and be among the many first international locations to take action” he remarked. Moreover, he congratulated Namibia for its key milestones achievement in eliminating mother-to-child transmission of HIV and Hepatitis B.
Minister Shangula famous the challenges posed by conspiracies within the HIV response inside the neighborhood. He emphasised the federal government’s dedication to implementing efficient well being packages, beginning with the elimination of mother-to-child transmission of HIV, which was totally funded by the federal government and supported by companions. “The outcomes achieved by this system are promising, however we’re nonetheless striving to satisfy the elimination targets” he added.
The dialogue additional highlighted the rising burden of non-communicable ailments (NCD) and the necessity for elevated funding in NCD and discount in danger elements. At present, WHO is supporting MoHSS in reviewing the Tobacco Merchandise Management Act of 2010, to make sure a complete authorized and coverage framework for tobacco management.
Moreover, the 2 leaders famous the success in polio eradication with regards to the profitable administration of the 2005 polio outbreak. The nation’s progress in enhancing Tuberculosis (TB) indicators was additionally highlighted.
WHO reiterated its dedication to supporting the Authorities of Namibia in addressing public well being challenges and enhancing the Ministry’s efforts to making sure common well being protection.