OMUTHIYA: More than 400 individuals have tested positive for HIV in the Oshikoto region of Namibia, following a comprehensive testing campaign conducted between January and October of this year. Out of the 36,976 people tested, 449 were found to be HIV-positive, as announced during the World AIDS Day commemoration.
According to Namibia Press Agency, health expert Saara Uushona revealed that of the 449 individuals who tested positive, 436 have been successfully linked to treatment. Despite these efforts, Uushona highlighted ongoing challenges for people living with HIV, including stigma, medication side effects, and forgetfulness. Other issues include misunderstandings about Antiretroviral therapy, mental health difficulties, and socio-economic challenges such as poverty and inadequate support systems.
Uushona emphasized the need for health workers to enhance patient education and counseling, provide medication reminders and tools, conduct community education campaigns, and encourage the formation of peer su
pport groups. She also advocated for training community-based and faith-based leaders on gender-based violence issues.
The World AIDS Day commemoration was organized by Tonata, a non-governmental organization, and featured a march through the town of Omuthiya. At the event, Tonata’s director, Victoria Kamule, underscored the courage shown by people living with HIV, communities, and activists who have long advocated for the rights and dignity of those affected by the virus.
According to Kamule, Tonata offers health education utilizing a standardized toolkit called ‘Positive Health and Dignity’ and maintains community-level support group structures. The organization boasts 29,000 members in Namibia and provides psychosocial support, including peer-to-peer counseling and motivation.
World AIDS Day, observed annually on December 1, serves to highlight the significance of upholding the United Nations declaration on Human Rights and promoting the inclusion of all communities.