8 May 2008
Windhoek — Namibia will launch its first ever National HIV Testing Day tomorrow at 10h00 in Zoo Park, it was announced in a press release from the United States of America Embassy, who are partnering with the Ministry of Health and Social Services.
The launch of the Testing Day will be preceded by a march through Independence Avenue, starting at 08h00 at the Tré Supermarket. The Minister of Health and Social Services, Dr Richard Kamwi, will deliver the keynote address.
"To make it easier for people to be tested during the National HIV Test campaign, counselling and testing sites throughout Namibia will extend their hours of operation from the day until Saturday.
"Hospitals, health care centres, clinics and New Start centres nationwide will be open from 08h00 to 20h00 on 08 and 09 May and from 08h00 to 17h00 on Saturday, 10 May," the statement said.
Testing will also be available at five mobile testing sites in Windhoek during these same hours. The mobile sites are the Polytechnic of Namibia, the University of Namibia, UN Plaza, Okahandja Park, and Greenwell Matongo.
"Why go for an HIV test? Knowing your HIV status helps you plan for your future and allows you to take the best care of yourself and your family; knowing your HIV status gives you peace of mind; knowing your HIV status supports safer relationships (by being faithful or using a condom); and knowing your HIV status will enable you to access treatment, care and support services early," said Ray Castillo, the director of the American Cultural Center.
National HIV Testing Day on May 9 will officially kick off a month of free HIV testing during this month.
"This is Namibia's first National HIV Testing Day and the Ministry of Health and Social Services (MOHSS) plans it to be an annual event," he said.
"The American President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, USAID, and the Department of State is a proud partner in the National HIV Testing Day campaign.
"In 2007, Namibia received over US$91 million to combat HIV/AIDS. Namibia is one of fifteen focus countries under the US President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR). Since 2003, Namibia has received approximately US$215 million from the US Government to carry out its plans to combat HIV/AIDS," he said.
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