Otjiwarongo: More than 1,500 people gathered at the Mokati Sports Stadium in Otjiwarongo on Monday to commemorate the 2025 World Aids Day. The event was marked by street processions, speeches, testimonies, and cultural performances.

According to Namibia Press Agency, the Minister of Health and Social Services, Dr. Esperance Luvindao, officiated at the event, emphasizing Namibia's commitment to eradicating HIV and Aids by 2030. The minister highlighted the potential impact of a new HIV and Aids injection, although she acknowledged challenges in its procurement.

Dr. Luvindao used the occasion to launch the seventh edition of the antiretroviral treatment guidelines for 2025, which aim to introduce modern integrated responses to HIV and Aids. These guidelines include options for managing unsuppressed viral loads, advanced diseases, and integrating non-communicable diseases.

Additionally, the minister launched the fourth edition of the National Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission (PMTCT) guidelines. These are targeted at ensuring every child in Namibia is born healthy, with mothers receiving dignified support.

Otjozondjupa Governor John //Khamuseb encouraged Namibians to continue HIV and Aids testing to maintain momentum in the fight against the virus. Chief Sam Kambazembi, leader of the Kambazembi Royal Traditional Authority, echoed this sentiment, urging men to participate in testing and emphasizing that HIV and Aids are manageable medical conditions.

Chief Kambazembi condemned discrimination and stigmatisation against those affected by HIV and Aids, advocating for a supportive environment. Several speakers at the event also called for continuous testing and enhanced support for those undergoing treatment.