More than 98% of babies born by HIV-positive mothers test negative 

By: Selma Taapopi

Namibia has made strides in the prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission (PMTCT) of HIV, Syphilis, and Hepatitis B from mothers to their babies.

Health Minister Esperance Luvindao said HIV transmission dropped by 70% since the early 2000s, with more than 98% of babies born to HIV-positive mothers now testing negative.

Namibia has made significant progress in preventing the transmission of HIV, Syphilis, and Hepatitis B from mothers to their babies through the Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission (PMTCT) programme.

These figures were shared by Health by Luvindao during World Patient Safety Day, held under the theme “Safe Care for Every Newborn and Every Child”.

Namibia was recognised in 2024 as the first African and high-burden country globally to achieve a major milestone toward eliminating vertical transmission of HIV and Hepatitis B.

In addition, the ministry has reduced both maternal and infant mortality rates over the past two decades.

Luvindao said maternal mortality dropped from 449 deaths per 100 000 live births in 2000 to 139 in 2024.

Similarly, infant mortality decreased from 50.9 to 25.4 deaths per 1,000 live births during the same period.

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