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Risk of HIV/AIDS Transmission : Related News Stories |
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| Partners | News | Success Stories | Links | Updated: 8/28/2006 |
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 GIVING CHILDREN A VOICE - 2006/08/29
Since March 2005, Uitani Childline Radio has given children all over Namibia a voice on radio. The President`s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief through USAID and UNICEF provides funding for this weekly radio magazine program produced for, and by, children between the ages of 8 to 14 years old. Its primary aim is to provide important life skills messages which will support children in dealing with everyday issues affecting their emotional health, their general safety and their protection against the impact of violence and HIV/AIDS.
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The dynamic and up beat radio show, co-produced and co-presented by children and young adults, incorporates interviews with parents, kids, quotes from kids throughout the country, and incorporates songs, jokes and stories from the community. Live studio guests who are experts on topics such as HIV/AIDS, stigma, domestic violence, suicide, teen pregnancies, bullying, and others are interviewed. In addition to the interviews and music Uitani Childline Radio has its own radio drama produced in collaboration with the second year radio students of the Media and Theatre Studies Department of the College of the Arts. The drama is called The Moving Roads of Namibia and focuses on children`s rights, morals and values.
Uitani Childline Radio also helps build self-esteem by empowering the participants through capacity-building workshops with voice training, radio production and feedback from focus groups.
The program also offers opportunities for the children involved in the production that might otherwise not be possible. For instance, the theme song for the radio drama was recorded with a local Kwaito star Gazza and six of the children. The Child Presenter, Neige, was able to interview her idol Gal Level for the show about careers.
The program is broadcast on various stations across the country: every Saturday morning on Katutura Community Radio, on Sundays at noon on NBC National Radio and on Omulunga Radio, the commercial radio station. |
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 VISIT BY AA/AFR LLOYD PIERSON TO REHOBOTH - 2006/06/21
On his recent trip to Namibia, Assistant Administrator for Africa, Lloyd Pierson, visited the field office of Catholic AIDS Action (CAA) in Rehoboth and the homes of several families being helped by CAA. CAA`s field office in Rehoboth was opened in 2000 and currently provides support to 85trained home based care volunteers in 11 groups. These volunteers in turn provide community outreach services to 160 HIV positive clients and 675 orphans and other vulnerable children. The Youth Education and Prevention program provides support and supervision to 20 volunteers. These volunteers reach approximately 600 children and young people per year through targeted youth education curricula in schools and youth groups. All CAA activities in Rehoboth aim to enhance community outreach and resiliency, raise awareness, and reduce stigma through a wide variety of group and individual interactions.
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| CAA activities provide efficient referral and support mechanisms to Catholic Health Service Hospitals under the antiretroviral treatment program, and ensures that patients receive continuity in critical HIV/AIDS prevention, care and treatment services, including counseling and psychosocial support needed to continue treatment. CAA also supports orphans and vulnerable children (OVC) through psychosocial, nutritional, educational, and income generation services. The U.S. President`s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) supports CAA to provide HIV and AIDS care, support, and prevention services at the grass-roots level throughout Namibia. CAA was founded in 1988 by the Namibian Catholic Bishops Conference and was Namibia`s first church-based response to the HIV/AIDS epidemic. Since its inception, CAA has expanded rapidly and now includes over 1600 volunteers countrywide working under 14 field offices. |
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 VILLAGE HEALTH FUNDS ASSIST ORPHANS AND VULNERABLE CHILDREN - 2006/01/26
On November 28, 2005, at the Sam Nujoma Multipurpose Centre in Ongwediva, Hon. Angelica Muharukua, Deputy Minister of Gender Equality and Child Welfare, launched a program to help families of orphans and vulnerable children (OVC). Project HOPE ("Health Opportunities for People Everywhere") is implementing this promising program which is modeled on successful experience gained in several other countries. Funding for the program is provided by the U.S. President`s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief and administered by USAID. The program focuses on assisting families with the extra expense of having to care for OVC through the following activities:
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· Providing micro-credit to caretakers of OVC to help alleviate economic burden and expand financial resources;
· Providing targeted education addressing issues of bereavement, life skills, home based care, and utilization of available community social services;
· Linking and strengthening the array of services for OVC provided by local community and faith-based organizations.
In her speech, Deputy Minister Muharkua stated: "The program introduces a substantially new approach to our HIV/AIDS and resulting OVC crises by putting emphasis on sustainability and self-help concepts."
"There is no work as important as the work you all are doing daily to help children in sometimes desperate need of care and support,"said USAID Director, Gary Newton. "With help from their government, family, school, church, and friends — including those of us here today — these precious children will receive the care and the education they need to become productive, independent citizens of this remarkable young nation, and to become some day themselves healthy and caring mothers and fathers." |
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 GOVERNMENT CAPACITY STRENGTHENED TO SUPPORT NAMIBIA`S OVC - 2005/12/08
At a ceremony on November 30, 2005 at the Ministry of Gender Equality and Child Welfare, Minister Marlene Mungunda thanked the U.S. Government for helping her Ministry improve support for Namibia`s increasing number of orphans and vulnerable children (OVC). With funding from the U.S. President`s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief, USAID, through our partner Family Health International (FHI), has been providing technical assistance, training, materials and equipment to strengthen the Ministry`s capacity to identify and register OVC, and to increase children`s access to government grants and services.
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Approximately 39,000 OVC across the country currently benefit from the government`s social grants, but many more are in need. Many OVC caregivers do not know that the grants are available, and if they do, many don’t know how to apply for them. The Government is trying to increase the public’s awareness of these grants.
Funding from the Emergency Plan enabled the Ministry to translate the National OVC Policy into six local languages and disseminate it nationwide; develop a brochure explaining the types of grants available to needy children and their caregivers, translate it into 6 languages, and disseminate it nationwide; and, strengthen its capacity to develop and manage the national OVC registration system and document the magnitude of children`s needs in Namibia. This will help the Ministry to advocate and justify additional funds for the care and support of orphans and vulnerable children.
In thanking the U.S. Government for support to the national OVC program, Minister Mungunda said: "...you have shown yourself to be a supportive and committed partner in our development, ready to assist and guide, to ensure that the children of Namibia’s future is secure."
Representing the U.S.G. Emergency Plan, USAID/Namibia Mission Director Gary Newton responded, "We are pleased to be in a position to support this Ministry. You are at the centre of the nation`s response to the urgent needs of children. Without your active leadership, a vigorous and rapid response to the compelling needs of Namibia’s children would not be possible." |
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 TACKLING ALCOHOL ABUSE AND HIV AT THE COMMUNITY-LEVEL - 2005/10/13
Harold Swartz was concerned about the number of illegal shebeens (local bars) in his community of Rehoboth not only because of usual negative effects of alcoholism, but because alcohol abuse contributes to high risk behavior and gender violence — both elements that fuel the HIV/AIDS epidemic in Namibia. In Rehoboth, approximately 14% of the community is already HIV positive and throughout Namibia nearly one in 5 individuals has HIV. With support from USAID, community members such as Harold Swartz receive training and resources to start HIV/AIDS Community Action Forums (CAF) in their towns. The CAF members work to increase awareness about HIV/AIDS and prevent the underlying causes fueling the epidemic in their communities.
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As chairperson of the CAF in the town of Rehoboth, Harold worked with the 7 other CAF members to tackle the problem of illegal shebeens in two ways. Harold traveled to the town of Walvis Bay to visit with their District AIDS Committee to learn how it had addressed the same problem. From this experience Harold and the other CAF members developed an action plan for Rehoboth and worked with the National Shebeen Association, which is responsible for regulating shebeen licenses, hours of sale and to whom alcohol is sold.
Harold and other CAF members also received USAID sponsored training on basic HIV/AIDS facts, and testing and treatment services available in the community. Harold drew upon this knowledge to mobilize CAF members and establish partnerships with other organizations to start HIV/AIDS awareness and information sessions in the shebeens themselves. To date, 12 awareness sessions have taken place with growing demand for more.
At a recent shebeen session, a married woman wanted to know how to negotiate safer sex practices by asking, "How do I all of a sudden ask my husband to use a condom after 15 years of marriage, just because I think he is sleeping with other women?"Her question and others at the shebeen sessions demonstrate that a platform has been created where all individuals feel comfortable receiving information and asking important questions. To encourage community members to take action to prevent HIV infection, the CAF distributes vouchers so that individuals can obtain a free HIV test and counseling at the local New Start counseling and testing center.
With funds from the U.S. President`s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief, USAID supports Johns Hopkins University to work with HIV/AIDS Community Action Forums in 13 communities throughout Namibia. Harold`s experience illustrates how CAFs are playing a key role in their communities to address a matter with life or death consequences for their fellow residents by promoting HIV awareness and tackling the difficult underlying factors contributing to the spread of HIV/AIDS. |
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 COLLABORATION IN COACHING BASKETBALL YOUTH ON NUTRITION AND HIV/AIDS - 2005/09/02
40 young athletes from the Namibia Basketball Association came to Windhoek in their capacity as community peer educators and informational ambassadors from 10 of the nation`s 13 regions. The occasion was a four-day workshop organized by the U.S. Embassy’s Public Affairs Section (PAS), which included leadership training for coaches, event planning, ethics and sportsmanship and health and living.
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Representatives from Family Health International teamed up with members of the U.S. Peace Corps to lead a presentation entitled, `HIV Prevention: Staying Healthy On and Off the Court.` Using a sports context to relay messages on HIV prevention and nutrition, presenters used participatory activities and a dramatic role-play to illustrate how poor nutrition can harm individuals living with or without HIV. They integrated observations from such basketball legends as Magic Johnson and Dikembe Motombo to reinforce the message that everyone is vulnerable to HIV infections and that prevention begins with education. You must know the facts about HIV/AIDS in order to make intelligent life choices.
The facilitators conveyed the seriousness of the AIDS pandemic in global and national terms. As the workshop attendees reviewed the 2004 national statistics from UNAIDS, they were curious to know why some regions were higher than others. One young man asked why the prevalence rate increased by over 10% in his region. When the facilitator asked what they thought it meant, the young man responded: "It means we have to start taking this thing very seriously."
Youth from the Hardap, Khomas, Caprivi and Erongo regions served as regional representatives, providing brief presentations in response to a video documentary about Gilbert Josamu, a young Zimbabwean whose boxing career was devastated and life cut short by HIV/AIDS. "His dreams were destroyed just when his career was on the rise," noted one young lady. Another workshop attendee regarded Josamu as a courageous community educator, and called on Namibians to be more open and honest about living with HIV when talking to the youth. "We can`t just keep hiding from this," he said.
This workshop was the first program under the PAS "Youth for Hope" project to form grassroots clubs nationwide to encourage young people to abstain from sex and drinking by offering healthy alternative activities. The coaches trained at this workshop will not only start basketball clubs but will also initiate other youth activities such as reading and science clubs, teaching health and HIV/AIDS awareness as part of the clubs` activities. The four representatives were awarded with basketballs, and were encouraged to share their new sports equipment and knowledge of HIV/AIDS with members of their respective communities. FHI receives its funding from the US President`s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief under its cooperative agreement with USAID. |
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 VOLUNTEERS ENSURE GRANDMOTHER AND CAREGIVER GETS A NEW HOME - 2005/08/05
Agnes Sikwela doesn`t know exactly when she was born, but she estimates that she is about 85 years old. She says that she never imagined that in her old age she would still be taking care of young children...but that is her situation. Instead of others taking care of her, she is responsible for eight grandchildren and great-grandchildren whose own parents — her own offspring — have died.
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Poverty and hunger are common companions for Agnes and the orphans under her care. Until recently, they didn`t have decent shelter, either. Agnes` mud-and-straw hut was falling apart, forcing everyone to sleep outside. In the summer they were hot and became easy prey to insects, vermin, and petty theft. In the winter, they felt cold and subject to illness. Without shelter Agnes felt that her family was drifting apart. And if that happened, she worried, "what would happen to the children?"
Two months ago the newly trained volunteers of Catholic AIDS Action in the Kabbe village, Caprivi Region, learned of the old woman`s plight. These volunteers receive their training and support from the U. S. President`s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief through USAID. Although their training had focused on home-based care, counseling, and prevention-education, the volunteers decided that the most important thing they could do for Agnes was to build her a new house. So they organized themselves, pooling their own resources, to build new walls, a new roof, and a door.
Life is still very difficult for this family, but with a new home, they have a chance for a better future. |
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 DAY OF THE AFRICAN CHILD - 2005/07/14
Children from fifteen different schools sang and danced through the streets of Ongwediva in a March of Remembrance, celebrating the Day of the African Child on 18 June.
Marchers arrived at the Sam Nujoma Multi-Purpose Center, where several speakers addressed youth and adults alike in a hall that was packed to capacity. The theme of the day, `African Orphans, Our Collective Responsibility`, resonated with the youth-filled audience members as the Multi-Purpose Center looks after over 100 orphans and vulnerable children with its after school programs. At the conclusion of the speeches, youth from each school performed songs, dramas, dances and poems. One of the most memorable performances was from the Eluwa School, as deaf and blind students took the stage for a moving song and dance piece. The children`s performances were powerful and poignant, a reminder that the future will be a brighter place if they are given the help needed to succeed.
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At lunchtime, the students received plenty of food and cool drinks thanks to the generous donations from local businesses. The event enabled students to mingle with peers from other schools. As other schools closed for the day, more children arrived to take part in the afternoon`s open house activities. Entertaining dramas and musical performances by the Ongwediva Youth Choir, Oshana Cultural Group, Childline/Lifeline and others brought smiles to the faces of many of the children. A nearly unlimited supply of chalk and crayons was provided at drawing tables outside for the young artists in the group. The cement slabs around the new office building, built with funding from the US Department of Defense, were decorated wonderfully by the kids. Hundreds of flip chart papers were splashed with color and works of art sprang to life. The dancing, singing, drawing and fun went on well past 5 o`clock. The festivities only ended when the sun had set.
The day was a major success, bringing the community together and reminding us that children truly are the future. Volunteers from the U.S. Peace Corps and the VSO were instrumental in assisting in the coordination of the center’s event. The Sam Nujoma Multi-Purpose Center`s activities are partially supported by the U.S. President’s Emergency Fund for AIDS Relief. |
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 VITAL SUPPORT FOR LIFELINE/CHILDLINE TRAINING CENTER - 2005/07/14
On the 7th of July 2005, the LifeLine/Childline training center and renovated headquarters were opened by Ambassador Joyce Barr, officiating on behalf of the U.S. President`s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief.
LifeLine/Childline has provided all sectors of the Namibian community with telephonically accessible crisis intervention and psychosocial support services since 1980. These services are mainly provided by concerned citizens who volunteer their time and expertise to support those in need of help. LifeLine`s services have expanded to include a 15 hour crisis team response, trauma debriefing, HIV/AIDS pre- and post-test counseling, retrenchment counseling, outreach programs, corporate training and peer counseling training.
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In 1996, LifeLine merged with the then inactive Childline in an effort to gain more comprehensive support for the emotional health of children. The Childline "Feeling YES, Feeling NO"life-skills school program was launched in 1998 and greatly expanded in 2002 with support from the U.S. Government.
In his remarks, Honorable Helmut Angula, Director-General of the National Planning Commission, underlined the need for this participatory program which teaches children about domestic and sexual abuse, how to prevent abuse, gives children the skills to respond to unwanted sexual approaches, and how to deal with strangers. He said, "It is shocking to know that the percentage of children who are raped and sexually abused is much higher than any other violence committed against children."He drew attention to the impact this has on their lives, "…particularly when we know that some of the children and indeed women get infected with HIV in the process of the abuse. Children are the future political and corporate leaders of any nation, and hence their rights should be protected."
By the end of 2004, over 70,000 children had directly benefited from the life skills program. In 2004, additional components were added to the Childline curriculum, including a radio program produced by and for children between the ages of 8 and 14. A puppet show is being developed for children between the ages of three and six to teach safety tips for talking to strangers and to explore the meaning of "yes and no"feelings.
In 2005, LifeLine/Childline received N$3,300,000 from the U.S. Emergency Plan for their HIV/AIDS programs, enabling them to build the capacity of its small professional team of trainers and to continue developing trusted relationships with its local volunteer bases throughout the nation. |
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 NYANGANA AND ANDARA HAVE A NEW START - 2005/06/29
New Start Voluntary Counseling and Testing Centers at Nyangana and Andara Catholic Hospitals were officially inaugurated at a joint ceremony on Friday, June 17, 2005 at Nyangana Hospital in the Kavango Region in north eastern Namibia. The opening of these Centers has been a priority due to high prevalence in the Kavango Region (approximately 21.3% of the adult population is infected). The two Centers will help halt the spread of HIV/AIDS by enabling people to learn their status and if negative, stay free of the virus, and if positive, treat the infection and live positively with HIV/AIDS. Since commencement of services in May 2005, the Centers have counseled, tested and served nearly 2000 clients, referring those who are eligible for anti-retroviral treatment or the prevention of mother-to-child transmission.
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 The ceremony was attended by Ms. Elizabeth Muremi, Kavango Regional Director of Health for the Ministry of Health and Social Services, Mr. Gary Newton, Mission Director of the United States Agency for International Development in Namibia, and senior representatives of the Roman Catholic Church and Catholic Health Services.
Ms. Muremi challenged the men in the audience of nearly 1000 to "…change their attitude and behavior. Being a sugar daddy has nothing to do with masculinity. Being a man means being trustworthy and caring. It means being determined and sticking to moral principles. A real man is committed towards one person instead of having various partners and seeking short-lived pleasures, which risk ruining the lives of girls and young women."
The Centers are managed by Catholic Health Services with technical support from Population Services International/Social Marketing Association and Family Health International, and are fully integrated into the Catholic Mission Hospitals at Nyangana and Andara. |
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 RADIO COMPETITION GIVES YOUTH A VOICE IN THE BATTLE AGAINST AIDS - 2005/04/28
Rush, a rapper from Rehoboth, took home the N$9000 ($1500) 1st prize for a song he composed and submitted to an innovative music competition designed to generate music that speaks to Namibia`s youth about HIV/AIDS. The competition was organized by the Social Marketing Association and a hot local radio station, Radio Energy, and generated record-breaking participation by the station`s young listeners. Rush`s song will be used to help advertise the availability of voluntary counseling and testing (VCT) services at a growing nationwide network of VCT centers called "New Start". The VCT centers — and the music competition — are supported under the U.S. President`s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief.
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The competition was launched in January 2005, and for six weeks a panel of judges met to listen to songs submitted on tape and CD. Three songs were identified for an on-air audience vote and one song was chosen by the audience each week for the final competition. Although the competition format is not new, this initiative addressed a critical health and development issue in an original way, using a leading opinion maker among youth (Radio Energy) and Namibian celebrities to target at-risk youth. The format was enhanced by getting listener participation in identifying the correct message.
The Social Marketing Association supports 13 VCT centers across Namibia. Between February 2003 and March 2005 SMA provided counseling and testing services to over 25,000 people. |
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 VISIT TO THE BERNARD NORDKAMP CENTRE - 2005/04/06
During his visit to Namibia, AA/AFR Lloyd Pierson visited the Bernard Nordkamp Centre in Katutura where Catholic AIDS Action runs a program of support for Orphans and Vulnerable Children (OVC). The program is funded by the President`s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief through USAID.
The Nordkamp Center is one of three multi-purpose centers run by Catholic AIDS Action in urban areas. The Centre, opened in May 1999, provides services to people in need regardless of religious affiliation. It offers training and outreach programs for HIV/AIDS prevention, care and support, a soup kitchen for 130 OVC per day, income generating activities for HIV+ clients, post-test support groups, and an after-school learning and support program. Regular hours of counseling and testing are provided for HIV/AIDS (pre-test, post-test), bereavement and family counseling.
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Home-based care is provided to 575 families by 88 Nordkamp Centre volunteers. Material and psycho-social support is provided to 990 registered orphans and 1500 orphans and vulnerable children benefit from after-school activities including art therapy, computer lab and assistance with homework.
The "Beaded Red Ribbon"income generating project has been very successful over the past months due to increased marketing. Twenty-five client families currently receive income from the sale of beaded ribbons they make on-site.
A Youth Education and Prevention Program consists of interactive discussions of age-appropriate HIV/AIDS topics with children at the Centre and young adults in the community: Adventure Unlimited is a program for children 8-12 years old, while the Stepping Stones program is aimed at the age group of 12 years and older. Both programs are offered in schools and youth groups throughout the area. |
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 A "NEW START"FOR KEETMANSHOOP - 2005/03/10
The New Start HIV/AIDS voluntary counseling and testing center in Keetmanshoop in the south of Namibia was officially launched on 1 March 2005 by Deputy Prime Minister Hon. Reverend Hendrik Witbooi and Gary Newton, Mission Director of USAID. The center, funded by the U.S. Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief, is operated by Catholic AIDS Action (CAA) in collaboration with the Social Marketing Association (SMA) with assistance from Family Health International. The center will provide confidential and affordable HIV counseling and testing services to the Keetmanshoop community.
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The center`s services will help empower those tested to protect themselves from being infected by HIV and will help those who test positive to maintain a healthy lifestyle. CAA built the center on land donated by the Catholic Church.
According to the initial results from the Ministry of Health and Social Services 2004 HIV prevalence survey, prevalence among pregnant women in Keetmanshoop is estimated at 16.3%, unchanged from 2002. By providing education and voluntary counseling and testing services it is hoped that the Keetmanshoop New Start Center will be instrumental in slowing the rate of infection.
The U.S. Government is the main supporter of the New Start voluntary counseling and testing network which operates under the guidance of SMA and in partnership with a number of Namibian NGOs. Currently there are 13 New Start centers in Namibia. It is likely that another nine will open during 2005 with support from the U.S. Government and the Global Fund for AIDS, TB and Malaria, including mobile units to reach remote rural communities. The New Start Center`s focus is to provide quality, anonymous and confidential services from counselors who receive regular supervision and training. In 2005, these sites will begin using rapid testing, an approved HIV testing method that will produce same day test results. This will make the service far more convenient for clients and is part of a general roll-out of rapid testing for HIV by the Ministry of Health and Social Services.
Deputy Prime Minister Hendrik Witbooi praised the efforts of the American Administration in alleviating the impact of the pandemic: "I am grateful that these centers are opened with the kind and generous help from our American friends and partners. Your help does not go unseen." |
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 SUPPORTING "COMMUNITY ACTION"TO FIGHT HIV/AIDS - 2005/02/03
The young people were nervous — they had never talked about HIV/AIDS with their parents, elders, or community leaders before. For the first time, different groups of people in Rehoboth talked frankly about the impact of AIDS in their community as part of a community mobilization intervention, an innovative community-led program funded by the U.S. Government Emergency Plan through USAID and implemented by the Johns Hopkins University Health Communication Partnership (HCP).
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"People never ask us what we feel and what we believe," said one young woman. An older woman added, "we are usually invisible here…Now our ideas are being heard."
The U.S. Government launched its community mobilization program in 2003 with the purpose of effecting social change at the grass roots level in order to halt the rise of HIV infection by addressing the major behavioral and social factors that are driving the epidemic. The program is targeting communities surrounding treatment/prevention of mother to child transmission sites designated by the Ministry of Health and Social Services. This mobilization process is designed to help participants identify the behavioral causes of HIV in their community and then supports them in developing strategies to eliminate the negative social norms that fuel the epidemic.
Part of a long-term process, community mobilization consists of initial meetings with community and opinion leaders, followed by a baseline survey. The survey results feed into community consultative sessions where community members and peer groups share their thoughts, feelings, and solutions. Long-term solutions are undertaken to change the root causes of HIV/AIDS, either through implementation of a "Community Action Forum"or identification of a structure to assume that role, depending on the particular community. While HCP trains and supports the community groups, the process and strategies belong to the individual communities.
Mobilization activities have already yielded results. "These discussions made me realize that when I drink, I forget to protect myself, so I`ve decided to stop drinking," concluded one older man. A nurse who attended a community meeting was shocked to hear how negatively participants viewed the hospital, and promised to take the feedback to hospital staff.
The ultimate goal of this program is to enable communities to see themselves as having the power and ability to take action and make a difference in the fight against AIDS. Community members enthusiastically agree. "We want to be involved and never knew how before…I`m going to do whatever I can to help," said one participant. |
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 DOING IT IN OSHIWAMBO - 2004/10/13
Namibia`s First Ecumenical Training of Trainers (TOT) course for Home Based Family Care and Counseling began on September 27, 2004 and was conducted for the first time in the north of the country in the Oshiwambo language. The 8-month course, which is broken into four modules of classroom study plus field assignments was made possible with funding from the U.S. Government`s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief, and support from USAID and technical assistance from Family Health International.
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All thirty participants are either pastors or lay leaders from the country`s Lutheran, Catholic, or Apostolic Faith Mission churches, whose respective church hierarchies have made a strong commitment to join in the fight against HIV and AIDS. Previous courses have always been in English or in Afrikaans, which meant that they were not able to adequately meet the needs of Namibia`s heavily affected northern regions, where most people speak Oshiwambo. Namibia`s Ministry of Health and Social Services has endorsed the course, whose curriculum and handouts will equip graduates to mobilize, train, and supervise community-based volunteers in the provision of prevention-information, basic counseling and advocacy, palliative care, and the special needs of children infected and affected by HIV. In addition, special attention will be given to the referral and follow-up of community members for available VCT, PMTCT, and ART services, now made available in Namibia`s northern region thanks to support from both the Namibian and U.S. governments.
The organization and training of this Ecumenical TOT — which has also included the development and/or dissemination of support materials in Oshiwambo — is a joint project of ELCIN AIDS Action (of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Namibia, the course hosts) and Catholic AIDS Action, both faith-based Implementing agencies of the USAID network of local providers under the Emergency Plan. ELCIN AIDS Action is hosting it at their training center in Ongwediva (see photo).
This is Namibia`s first ever inter-organizational cooperative effort between ELCIN AIDS Action and Catholic AIDS Action, and was organized in response to the critical need for trained home based care givers and counselors in Namibia in light of the country`s AIDS crisis. Cooperation and collaboration are fundamental to an effective, multi-faceted response to HIV/AIDS, and this TOT is an excellent example of the interagency relationships fostered through the Emergency Plan partners in Namibia. |
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 CHILDREN`S STORYBOOK LAUNCHED TO HELP OVC - 2004/09/02
Thanks to the support provided by USAID through Family Health International, Catholic AIDS Action published an instructional children`s storybook that provides advocacy information to help orphans and other vulnerable children access their right to a free primary education in Namibia.
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Although the Namibian constitution guarantees a "free primary education"to all, the reality is that many children cut short their education due to a lack of money to pay the requisite school fees. An exemption is possible via the Ministry of Basic Education, Sport, and Culture — but this information is not widely known or practiced. Thus, the new book, Kauna`s Birthday Wish, offers hope to thousands of poor orphans and other vulnerable children in Namibia whose education is at-risk unless an exemption can also be granted on their behalf -- the same as it was for Kauna in the storybook.
By using a children`s book, Catholic AIDS Action aims to reinforce the message of "education for all"amongst students, teachers, and caregivers. The book was officially launched on 2 February 2004 by Namibia`s Ministry of Basic Education, Sports, and Culture, and will be distributed in three languages (English, Afrikaans, and Oshiwambo) to all school-based and community-libraries in Namibia. It was written by Lucy Y. Steinitz of Catholic AIDS Action and colourfully illustrated by student-teacher Valence Litja Williams. Further translations into additional indigenous languages can be expected later this year. |
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 DAA TOM WOODS VISITS NAMIBIA - 2004/09/02
USAID`s Deputy Assistant Administrator, Tom Woods, recently paid a five day visit to Namibia, during which he visited USAID activity sites in four different regions of the country. During one of his stops, he met with staff, volunteers, and children at the Bernhard Nordkamp Center`s after school program for Orphans and Vulnerable Children (OVC). He learned that behind the joyful faces of many of the children were lives bearing the twin burdens of social stigma and economic hardship.
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It is estimated that Namibia, a small country of approximately 1.8 million people, has over 80,000 children under the age of 15 living without one or both parents. Many predict that within the next several years, 1 in 3 children will be orphaned before reaching the age of 18. Often orphaned children are taken in by extended families, which are already living below or close to the poverty line. Increasingly, however, Namibia is experiencing the tragic phenomenon of child-headed households. Good nutrition and access to education are a constant struggle for many OVC.
The Bernhard Nordkamp Center is just one of the many efforts in Namibia to address the OVC crisis. It provides at-risk children with education advocacy assistance; limited material support (for instance, in the way of school uniforms); psycho-social support; an afternoon soup kitchen; and experiential learning opportunities. The Center was established and is operated by Catholic AIDS Action, a USAID-supported organization that is helping approximately 18,000 OVC throughout Namibia.
In his remarks at the Center, Mr. Woods expressed his high regard for the vital work being done by the staff and volunteers of Catholic AIDS Action, and reiterated the U.S. Government`s firm commitment to supporting efforts that help orphans and vulnerable children build happy and productive lives. |
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 FIRST TRADITIONAL LEADER SPEAKS OUT PUBLICLY ABOUT HIV/AIDS - 2004/08/16
History was made two weeks ago in Namibia, when King Taapopi, the traditional leader of the Uukwaluudhi Constituency in Northwest Namibia, became the first traditional leader to speak out publicly on HIV and AIDS. With support from the U.S. Government`s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief, and technical assistance through USAID and Family Health International, the King joined with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Namibia and other partners to hold a full-day Educational Conference on HIV and AIDS in Tsandi, at his royal headquarters.
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His Royal Highness spoke to more than five hundred of his rural constituents to inform them about the disease (how to prevent infection, and how to live positively for as long as possible if one is already infected), and to warn them against alcohol abuse, family violence and stigmatization, as contributing factors.
In keeping with the solemn mood, the king donned a simple sack-cloth, saying that his people are suffering and he wants to show that he is suffering with them. After his speech, he and the Queen lit a large memorial candle together, followed by 100 community members who lit their smaller candles from his bigger one, symbolically taking the message back to the villages.
Additional remarks on this occasion came from Gary Newton, USAID Mission Director for Namibia, the Governor`s office, the Ministry of Health and Social Services (on the increased availability of prevention of mother to child transmission services, with support of the US government), the Council of Churches in Namibia, the Evangelical Lutheran Church`s AIDS Action programme, and Rose De Buysscher, Country Director for Family Health International/Namibia.
Other traditional leaders attending the event expressed enthusiasm for the King`s presentation and indicated that they will follow suit in their constituencies, opening up additional opportunities for community mobilization. |
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 REHOBOTH VCT BRINGS NEW HOPE TO THE COMMUNITY - 2004/07/14
A New Start center was recently opened by the Deputy Minister of Health and Social Services, Hon. Richard Kamwi, and Bishop Zephania Kameeta of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Rehoboth (a town just south of the capital). The Center offers affordable and voluntary counseling and testing for HIV/AIDS, and receives financial support from the American Government as part of the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief. Technical advice and leadership is being provided by the Social Marketing Association, which is responsible for the management of the New Start voluntary counseling and testing network.
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 New Start centers are being opened countrywide and are vital in mitigating the impact of HIV/AIDS. Before the opening of New Start centers, testing was only available from hospitals or private institutions. The centers now provide an anonymous alternative at the cost of N$10, but at no cost for those unable to pay. People can receive counseling and answers to their questions with regard to HIV/AIDS without undergoing testing, if they are not ready to be tested.
According to Beverley Nell, Manager of New Start Rehoboth, "New Start centers provide a service to the general public and the majority of the clients who visit the centers are HIV-negative. We work with individuals to help them to remain HIV-negative and to effect changes in their lifestyles and encourage them to live healthy lives."
Deputy Minister Kamwi said at the opening that HIV/AIDS is the single biggest challenge for all Namibians. "The disease is not only dangerous for young people who are sexually active, but the consequences of this sickness will touch all Namibians as it goes against all our best plans for development in the country."He went on to say that it is certain that HIV/AIDS is not an isolated health problem; but, that all sectors are affected and the disease threatens to destroy any accomplishments that have already been made in Namibia. |
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 NAMIBIA LOSES A MAJOR ROLE PLAYER - 2004/07/14
Ambassador Kevin McGuire, a consummate diplomat, will be departing Namibia on July 17 together with his wife, Kay. He will be sorely missed by all, especially due to his staunch commitment to the programs of USAID in Namibia and his tireless drive to garner support for USAID/Namibia`s work from all quarters and at all levels.
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The Ambassador had been told before leaving Washington in 2001, that there was no chance of a reversal of the plan to phase out the bilateral USAID program by 2005. Yet, he was convinced that Namibia`s record on democratic institutions, rule of law, environmental issues, human rights, education, health care, the free market, as well as its effective use of assistance in the past, justified reconsideration. He thereupon played a leading role in persuading Washington to extend USAID`s programs in Namibia to 2010.
One of the Community Based Natural Resource Management (CBNRM) partners commended Ambassador McGuire for being "an extremely effective champion for the CBNRM program in Namibia." He went on to say that without Ambassador McGuire`s support CBNRM in Namibia would be much the poorer — and this would have meant that marginalized rural communities would be poorer, and the natural resource base would be far less productive and diverse. "His enthusiasm for good sustainable development initiatives and his brilliant diplomacy all combined to make him a wonderful CBNRM champion."
Ambassador McGuire, as Chief of Mission during the initiation of the President`s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief, has played a key role and worked energetically on behalf of Namibians against HIV/AIDS. Under his leadership, the availability of anti-retroviral therapy, comprehensive care and support, voluntary counseling and testing, as well as educational and psychosocial support for orphans and vulnerable children, has been expanded throughout Namibia in close partnership with the Ministry of Health and Social Services and a variety of non-governmental organizations. For programs through September 2004, US$23 million has been approved. For FY2005, it is expected that funding will be increased to US$38 million to further address the key areas of prevention, treatment and care, and support. |
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 PRIVATE HEALTH SECTOR JOINS IN THE PROVISION OF ARV TREATMENT - 2004/05/19
Namibia has a very active private health sector, including private hospitals, doctors, nurses, pharmacists and social workers. Large and medium sized companies and the public sector provide access to health insurance for their employees. Therefore a not insignificant number of Namibians are covered under a health insurance plan and use the private sector for health care. With funding from USAID, FHI guidance and support was instrumental in establishing the Namibian HIV Clinicians Society. The newly created society with over 100 active members will ensure that private practitioners understand the importance of correct management of HIV according to the national treatment guidelines. In March 2004, with USAID Emergency Plan support, the Society organized a three-day Continuous Professional Development seminar on HIV disease management and ART attended by 63 health professionals. The Minister of Health and Social Services gave the keynote address and stressed the importance of a strong partnership between the public and private health sector and congratulated the HIV Clinicians Society for their effort to establish a network of well-qualified health professionals providing clinical care for HIV.
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| According to private medical claim information, over 2,600 persons received some form of ART in 2003. This number will grow over the next years, and although the majority of patients are prescribed appropriate treatment, a number of patients receive sub optimal or even inappropriate treatment. Inappropriate treatment provides no long-term health gains for patients. Moreover, it results in the selection of resistant viruses that no longer respond to treatment. With the establishment of the HIV Clinicians Society and continued support for training under the President`s Emergency Initiative, the Society will be strengthened to provide appropriate treatment according to national guidelines. |
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 THE PHILIPPI NAMIBIA CAMP EXPERIENCE - 2004/05/19
If you ask Orphans and other Vulnerable Children (OVC) in Namibia what makes them happy, they usually say three things: going to school; spending time with friends; and having someone with whom they can talk when they have a problem.
Not only was this confirmed during a series of site visits to different programs sponsored by the USG Emergency Plan in Namibia, but these values get regularly reinforced through the overnight Holiday Camps for OVC by USAID-supported Philippi Namibia, co-staffed by Catholic AIDS Action and other partners. Many children at a recent holiday camp outside reported spending long periods of time caring for an adult who was ill, or else having to relieve that person from other duties by taking on more housework or the care of younger family members.
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The loss of parents and other caregivers also results in a loss of household income, which may place school-attendance and basic nutrition in jeopardy. Together with their partners, Philippi Namibia works hard to keep children in school and in a safe and healthy environment. After-school programs and local Kids` Clubs offer supplement to what extended family members cannot provide.
Children at the Philippi Namibia camp were asked about the kind of support they think would help them — and other children like them — in order to grow up strong and healthy. Many children echoed the following responses:
- We need someone to love, who loves us back.
- I want to stay at a community Children`s Home, because where I am staying, my cousins come by and take over the whole house, and then I have to sleep outside.
- I don`t want to go home. The camp makes us forget our troubles.
- There should be more holiday camps for children, like this one.
- Here at the camp, I learned to feel special.
The children come from different religious traditions, but to all, Philippi staff add a spiritual dimension. In addition, the camps` participatory approach includes a focus on coping strategies, emotional and spiritual support, bereavement counseling, HIV education, and just plain "good fun"— which all children need. |
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 "NEW START"LAUNCH KATUTURA - 2004/03/01
"We are all HIV positive"declared Conny Samaria, the Advocacy Director of Lironga Eparu, Namibia`s National Association of People Living with HIV/AIDS, "until proven HIV negative by a test result."Conny was speaking at the February 4 launch of the "New Start"HIV/AIDS Voluntary Counseling and Testing (VCT) Center at the Council of Churches of Namibia (CCN) complex in Katutura, the township area of Namibia`s capital city of Windhoek. With a prevalence rate of over 20 percent and few people having been tested, assuming that everyone is HIV positive, and taking the precautions implicit in that assumption, is not a bad strategy for a Namibian to adopt. An even better strategy, however, as Conny later highlighted, is being tested for HIV and knowing one`s HIV status.
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Studies confirm that people who know that their status is negative take greater precaution and make better choices when it comes to sex. On the other hand, people who know their status is positive are in a better position to learn to live with their positive status, to get treatment when it becomes necessary, and to not infect those with whom they have relations.
The launch of "New Start"will make knowing one`s status much easier for Namibians. "New Start"is a network of free-standing VCT centers. Launched in February 2003, "New Start"is implemented by the Social Marketing Association (SMA), a local affiliate of Population Services International. SMA collaborates with local partners, such as the CCN, through a franchising scheme. SMA provides operational guidelines and protocols, training, mass media marketing, research and monitoring, and quality assurance, while the local partner provides the site, staff and outreach capacity. Currently six "New Start"centers are operational, with the number expected to increase to eight by the end of March. Services at the centers are anonymous and highly subsidized.
Support for "New Start,"is a collaboration among several donors, including USAID, the Centers for Disease Control, and the European Community. Prime Minister Theo Ben Gurirab, who joined Conny at the launch of CCN`s "New Start"VCT Center, thanked the donors for their "generosity in helping [Namibia] fight the scourge of HIV/AIDS,"and noted, that those involved in promoting VCT demonstrate that, "in spite of all the challenges posed by HIV/AIDS, there is hope."Read the full text of the speeches at Speeches |
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 LAUNCH OF YOUTHNET PROGRAM IN NAMIBIA - 2003/12/15
On October 28, 2003, the Namibia YouthNet Program was officially launched in Windhoek and on November 5th in Walvis Bay, Erongo region, the second YouthNet site.
YouthNet, a USAID-funded program awarded to FHI and partners - CARE USA, MSCI, RTI and Deloitte Touché Tohmatsu, is a global program to improve reproductive health and prevent the spread of HIV in young people. The Namibia YouthNet program is aimed at young people between the ages of 8-16 through the implementation of the Christian Family Life Education (CFLE) curriculum. The program is implemented in collaboration with Change of Life Style (COLS), a local non-denominational faith-based youth organization. Twenty churches and faith-based organizations in Windhoek, Walvis Bay and Swakopmund communities are currently participating in the program.
Over 70 people representing churches, faith-based organizations, government sectors, UN agencies, youth structures and non-governmental organizations, attended the launch in Windhoek.
Key speakers at the Windhoek event included, Dr. Tshapaka Kapolo who delivered a speech on the role of the churches and faith-based organizations in youth HIV prevention on behalf of the General Secretary of the Council of Churches in Namibia, Dr. Nobert Foster, Under Secretary of the Ministry of Health and Social Services, delivered a keynote address on behalf of the Deputy Minister, while Diana Swain, Director of USAID/Namibia made the closing remarks.
Youth choirs from participating churches entertained the audience with inspiring messages during the launch.
See Dr. Forster`s speech at ../Speeches |
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 OFFICIAL LAUNCH OF "NEW START"VCT FACILITY - 2003/12/11
October 31 - In a well attended and celebratory ceremony, which emphasized partnership and collaboration among the multiple donors, private companies and members of the community, the Walvis Bay Multi-Purpose Center (MPC) launched its "New Start"voluntary counseling and testing (VCT) facility. Additions to the Center including catering facilities for the positive living group and a Catholic AIDS Action expanded facility for orphans and vulnerable children (OVC) were also inaugurated. The USAID-supported MPC was lauded for continuing to provide hope to the youth, OVC and people infected with HIV/AIDS. Reflecting the feeling of community celebration, the audience was entertained by singing and dancing by the youth-based Lagoon Cultural Group. In addition, Catholic AIDS Action awarded medals of honor to several dozen volunteers, denoting at least three years of service to the organization.
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The Walvis Bay MPC, opened in 2001, was built on land donated by Walvis Bay Municipality, with construction costs supplied by the U.S. Department of Defense and staff and activities supported by USAID and the Peace Corps. In three years, the Center has served more than 25,000 community members with services ranging from care and support for OVC, for youth in life skills education and employment training, and assistance for people living with HIV/AIDS. The additions to the Center will allow the MPC and Catholic AIDS Action to build upon previous successes and expand the network of critical services and support to the community. The new VCT facility, which opened its doors in September, 2003 has already served more than 100 clients in a confidential and safe facility.
The event culminated with the Director of the MPC, Beverly Figaji; the Deputy Minister of Health and Social Services, Richard Kamwi; and the Deputy Mayor of Walvis Bay, Adelaide Kanjala, each making appointments to be tested at the new facility. In a country where the stigma against HIV/ AIDS is still alive and going for testing not yet common, the gesture on the part of these community leaders is a clear demonstration of central and local government commitment to the effort to combat HIV/AIDS in Namibia. |
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 AWARENESS WORKSHOPS ON CHILD ABUSE, DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AND HIV/AIDS - 2003/12/11
Lifeline/Childline Namibia, with USAID support, conducted awareness workshops on child abuse, domestic violence and HIV/AIDS for 60 teachers from six primary schools in the Khomas Region graduated during 2003. This training complements the Life Skills program "Feeling Yes, Feeling No," supported by USAID through its implementing partner, Family Health International, in three regions of Namibia.
The Life Skills program is tailored for primary school learners aged eight to twelve. Over the past four years, learners have been informed on how to avoid abuse through participatory drama. However, the teachers were not skilled on how to recognize abuse, nor on how to support and assist the affected children, and refer them to Lifeline/Childline or other professional services, if necessary.
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| The aim of the teacher workshops is to create awareness among primary school teachers about the impact of child abuse, domestic violence, drug abuse and HIV/AIDS on the lives of the learners, as well as to equip them with basic skills in the protection of the children. During the workshops the teachers have shown much interest and active participation. On October 1, a certificate awards ceremony was held and the teachers were presented with their certificates. |
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 U.S. NAMIBIA MISSION CONFERENCE ON HIV/AIDS IN THE WORKPLACE - 2003/11/07
The United States Mission to Namibia hosted the first Regional Conference on HIV/AIDS in the workplace at Midgard lodge, just outside Windhoek, on June 18, 2003. Participants included delegates from other U.S. Mission posts in Africa, including Angola, Botswana, Lesotho, Swaziland, South Africa, Mozambique and Ethiopia. U.S. Ambassador Kevin McGuire set the tone for the event with a focus on making Missions model employers in addressing the issue of HIV/AIDS in the workplace and acknowledged the contribution of peer educators in educating and sharing information with colleagues.
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 A candle lighting ceremony symbolized the power of "hope"in keeping alive the flames of "faith", "love"and "acceptance,"which are all key aspects necessary to persevere in the struggle against the HIV/AIDS pandemic.
Among the issues addressed at the conference were cultural myths and beliefs that impede the efforts against the spread of HIV. Thought-provoking breakout groups which focused on HIV/AIDS treatment, legal and human rights aspects, positive living, and de-stigmatization of HIV/AIDS stimulated discussion among participants. The session on living positively with the challenge of stigma and discrimination evoked tears as participants listened to a testimony by Emma Tuahepa, the first Namibian to publicly disclose her HIV positive status. The conference, which served as an eye opener to the more than 150 delegates who actively participated, surpassed its goal to shed light on vital aspects of dealing with HIV/AIDS in the workplace.
The day was further highlighted with a competition involving presentations by Botswana, Lesotho and Namibia on strategies for addressing HIV/AIDS in the workplace, as well as a regional quiz on knowledge of HIV/AIDS related issues. The overall winner of the competition, Lesotho, received the regional trophy and made a commitment to host the 2004 U.S. Mission Regional HIV/AIDS Event.
The event has certainly helped to heighten awareness of the importance of communication and the acknowledgment of interdependence among peers. |
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 YOUTH-LED PARTICIPATORY APPRAISALS ON SEXUAL AND REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH - 2003/11/07
On June 20, 2003, YouthNet/Namibia presented preliminary findings on the participatory assessment of reproductive health and HIV/AIDS prevention needs for younger youth (8-16 years) at NamPower Convention Centre, Windhoek.
The participatory process involved in-depth training for 59 youth selected from churches, faith-based organizations, youth councils and youth centers from Windhoek, Walvis Bay and Swakopmund. During group work, young people learned to trust each other and speak openly about issues related to sexual health and HIV infection. The youth analyzed the information collected, led workshops, validated findings from the assessments, and suggested recommendations for the proposed project.
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 The tools youth used included, among others, "body mapping", "problem ranking", and "my universe."During the "body mapping"exercise, participating youth drew representations of the human body. The drawing of "my universe"included their families, friends, communities, etc., which helped them view sexual and reproductive health issues on multiple levels from individual to a broader context. When asked to identify the individuals in their universe they could talk to about sex, many couldn`t identify a reliable person. Some boys and girls expressed that they were scared to bring up sex as a topic for discussion with their parents for fear of being punished.
YouthNet, a global USAID funded program awarded to FHI and partners - CARE USA, MSCI, RTI and Deloitte Touché Tohmatsu, is now being implemented in Namibia under the auspices of Change of Life Style (COLS). The overall goal of the project is to strengthen the capacity of faith-based organizations and churches to improve younger youth reproductive health and HIV/AIDS prevention behaviors with the purpose of delaying the onset of sexual activity. This program has recently commenced with 20 pilot churches and faith-based organizations in Windhoek, Walvis Bay and Swakopmund communities. |
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 NAMIBIA`S FIRST INTEGRATED SERVICES CENTER LAUNCHED - 2003/10/13
To expand access to HIV/AIDS prevention, care and treatment for the people of Oshikuku and others in the north of the Omusati region, the Oshikuku VCT/PMTCT/ART Integrated Services Center was inaugurated on September 22, 2004 with support from the U.S. Government`s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief. The Center, operated by Catholic Health Services and supported by the Ministry of Health and Social Services (MoHSS), was officially opened by Honorable Deputy Minister of Health and Social Services Richard Kamwi on behalf of the Government of the Republic of Namibia.
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 The Center provides three key services, voluntary counseling and testing (VCT), prevention of mother-to-child-transmission (PMTCT), and antiretroviral (ART) therapy to eligible patients, and is part of the Oshikuku district hospital which serves a catchment area of 96,000 people. Annually there are 1,200 deliveries at the hospital. HIV prevalence among women attending the antenatal services is about 27%. Routine counseling and testing, care and support, and full antiretroviral treatment for mothers, their children and partners is available. According to hospital reports, there are over 900 patients hospitalized each year for advanced HIV disease and a similar number of TB patients of which approximately 60% will be co-infected with HIV. All HIV+ individuals will receive counseling, drugs for opportunistic infections and those eligible for treatment under MoHSS guidelines will receive antiretroviral drugs and therapy.
U.S. Agency for International Development/Namibia Director, Gary Newton, speaking on behalf of the U.S. Government Mission at the event, drew attention to the sobering reality of AIDS as being the leading cause of death since 1996. One in seven teachers is infected and 42 children become orphans every day. But "we can be optimistic", he added, because the Namibian government has a "sound strategy to confront and control the epidemic …and there`s a talented and committed coalition of leaders, managers, technicians, and volunteers from the public, private, religious, and NGO communities", to implement the strategy and provide critically needed services such as those of this new Integrated Services Center. |
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 LAUNCH OF THE SUZIE & SHAFA SHOW - 2003/09/29
The city of Windhoek was "abuzz"Wednesday evening September 10, with a unique mix of students, professors, diplomats, cabinet ministers, entertainment celebrities, NGO representatives and their friends. Everyone was gathered at the Warehouse to celebrate, with words, song and dance, the beginning of a new era in the Namibian people`s fight against HIV/AIDS, the launch of The Suzie and Shafa Show. The diversity of the celebrants mirrored the intense multi-sectoral participation in this show`s development.
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Conceived, designed, written and produced by Namibians, the show is a 26-episode, magazine format radio program that tackles the tough issues that young people face, like date rape and communication with parents, in a way that is entertaining and educational. It is a collaboration of UNAM and College of the Arts students, with support from the Center for Communication Programs at Johns Hopkins University. It is broadcast on UNAM Radio 97.4 Thursday`s at 5 pm and repeats on Saturday`s at noon.
During the launch the Minister of Health`s representative, Mr. Simwanza Simenda, emphasized the need for the youth of Namibia to be actively engaged so they can participate in the process of slowing down the AIDS epidemic. U.S. Ambassador, Mr. Kevin McGuire, joked with the audience about this not being his usual role, "to promote radio programs."But he went on to emphasize the uniqueness of this opportunity for young people`s voices to not only be heard but for them to talk among themselves through this radio program in their own style and language on such important issues. The last of the formal presentations was the Minister of Information and Broadcasting, Nangolo Mbumba. After finishing his prepared remarks, the Minister addressed the young people with candor and sincerity. He ended by saying that "your future is not determined by the chances you have. Rather the choices you make in life determine the chances you have."
That remark embodies the spirit of The Suzie and Shafa Show. It presents choices, builds skills to deal with life situations and does it in a fun atmosphere that challenges young people to think for themselves and be responsible for the choices they make in life. |
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 ONGWEDIVA MULTI-PURPOSE CENTER OPENED BY PRESIDENT NUJOMA - 2003/05/15
On April 11, the Ongwediva community celebrated the launch of a new community development project, aimed at improving the quality of life of people in that area. The new multi-purpose center (MPC), dedicated to President Sam Nujoma for his commitment to the development of the Namibian people, was officially opened by His Excellency at a special ceremony attended by invited dignitaries, including U.S. Ambassador Kevin McGuire, ministers, regional and local officials, NGO, business, donor and community representatives. President Nujoma emphasized in his speech the importance of the facility to the fight against the spread of HIV, and to support youth development in the region.
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The construction of the MPC was built with funding (totaling US$ 150,000) by the council and two Belgian "sister cities,"Lommel and Aardooie. The project was established to increase access to essential community services and information on HIV/AIDS, education, health and environmental issues. Designed as a center to uplift the local community, the Sam Nujoma MPC will provide a gateway to the Internet and computer services and training (the IT Information Center is equipped with 10 computers accessible by the public), after-school activities for in- and out-of-school youth, support for people infected and affected by HIV/AIDS, referrals for counseling services, peer education and outreach to schools and business community, information and education materials, a soup kitchen for orphans and vulnerable children, as well as cultural and recreational activities. The center`s activities are governed by a multi-sectoral steering committee, on which USAID, an instrumental partner in the conceptualization and implementation of the project, is represented. USAID is providing assistance for training and staffing, through its implementing partner Family Health International, and the Peace Corps is providing a volunteer staff member to support community mobilization.
The dedication, held at the MPC premises in Ongwediva, was attended by over 400 people. Ambassador McGuire made the announcement in his speech that the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) will provide US$200,000 for an extension to the facility. This was met with a very enthusiastic response. The financial contribution by the DoD will enable the center to expand the HIV/AIDS program to include voluntary counseling and testing program and training facilities. |
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 HATS OFF TO CAA VOLUNTEERS AND OUR "OVC" CHILDREN - 2003/02/28
One of the most tragic impacts of HIV / AIDS is the number of orphans it leaves in its wake. Namibia, a country of only 1.8 million people, has almost 100,000 orphaned children, with the numbers expected to grow significantly over the years ahead. Most of these children join the families of aunts and uncles or live with grandparents, often constituting a strain on already stretched family resources. Catholic AIDS Action (CAA) is one of the non-governmental organizations working hard to help make the lives of Namibia`s orphans and vulnerable children (OVC), and their caretakers, better. Serving both Catholics and non-Catholics, CAA helps keep OVC in school and provides much needed psycho-social support.
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Late last year, CAA sponsored its first overnight camp experience for OVC. Since then, CAA and its partner, Philippi Trust (the local affiliate of an international faith based organization), have replicated the camp experience for several other groups of children. Each camp has lasted three days and involved approximately 60 children. Games, new songs, dramas, stories and making new friends are all part of the camp experience. Many of the activities are designed to teach children about themselves and to strengthen important life-skills, such as dealing with loss and grief, improving communications skills, and understanding children`s rights and responsibilities. A heavy emphasis is placed on experiential learning.
The camps are part of a larger effort to deepen the understanding of psycho social support issues, to promote youth clubs, and to train older children and volunteers to provide support to younger OVC. They are an outgrowth of CAA`s after-school program at the Bernhard Nordkamp Centre in Katutura. Known as the Children`s Learning and Support Programme (CLASP), the program provides homework support, counseling, therapeutic games and fun activities. Financial support for CLASP and the camps is provided by several donors, including BP Namibia, Model Pick and Pay, Bristol Myers, and USAID. USAID`s funding comes from the Education for Development and Democracy Initiative. |
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 YOUNG PEOPLE PRODUCE FIVE VIDEO CLIPS ON HIV/AIDS - 2002/10/28
Namibia has one of the highest world`s HIV/AIDS prevalence rates. A number of local groups have emerged to help stem the spread of the disease, and to help those infected and affected by the disease to deal with its consequences. Among these groups, Ombetja Yehinga (The Red Ribbon) is not only one of the most active, it is one of the most innovative. Initiated under the auspices of the Kunene Regional Council "to help youth take better care of themselves,"the group has been operating in all secondary schools in Kunene since January 2001. |
It uses visual and performing arts to communicate messages and generate discussion about HIV/AIDS transmission and prevention, and to convey messages that seek to destigmatize HIV/AIDS. Through their work, group members themselves become more aware of the disease, ways to prevent it, and the need to accept and care for those who have been infected. Specifically, Ombetja Yehinga publishes a regular newsletter that is noteworthy for its colorful, eye-catching lay-out; has published a book that includes beautiful photographs of Kunene youth and poignant poetry written by the youth; and, most recently, has completed a series of entertaining but message-laden music video clips. Members of Ombetja Yehinga also perform their poems and songs.
"The Days are so Long"
Out there, somewhere, alone and frightened
Oh the darkness, the days are so long
Life in hiding
No more nurturing new contacts
No more loving arms around my neck
Take my hand I am tired and lonely
Give me love, give me hope
Don’t desert me, don’t reject me
All I need is love and understanding
Let’s be open, advise the youth
A young generation to protect and love
See them singing, playing, laughing
Let’s give them everything in truth and love
Take my hand
I’m tired and lonely
Give me love, give me hope
Don’t desert me, don’t reject me
by members of the AIDS Awareness Club
Outjo Secondary School
USAID is pleased to be able to support the creative, high quality work of Ombetja Yehinga and commends the work of Philippe Talavera and the Kunene Regional Council in bringing the group together and guiding its activities. |
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HIV/AIDS WORKPLACE PROGRAMS - 2002/04/04
Several Namibian non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and businesses have taken an active role in forming public-private partnerships and supporting workforce HIV/AIDS programs that inform, educate, protect and provide care and support. A prominent NGO paving the road for others is the AIDS Care Trust (ACT).
In 1999, ACT spearheaded a partnership with the Ministry of Works, Transport, and Communication to train 2000 Namibian road workers as HIV/AIDS peer educators. Since then, the list of private sector companies and labor unions in partnership with ACT has grown impressively and includes NamPower, NamWater, National Housing Enterprise, Standard Bank, Safari Hotel, Namlife, Meatco, BP, Namibia Dairies, Namibia Domestic and Allied Workers Union, Namibian Agricultural Union, and many others.
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ACT`s Workplace Program
Leveraging private sector investment. In all cases, ACT and their private sector partners combine resources to implement the workplace program. For example, NamWater provided an HIV/AIDS coordinator, training facilities, expenses for trainers/peer educators, and the indirect costs from the loss of productive hours due to peer education. ACT, supported by USAID/Namibia, provided a trainer and the training materials. The investment by NamWater exceeded that of ACT and USAID.
Getting buy-in from top managers. ACT staff reach out to major companies and make presentations to top management on the economic and financial benefits of workplace programs.
Facilitating supervisor support of peer educators. ACT staff present to mid-level managers and supervisors - the people who support peer educators and approve time off from work to perform peer education activities.
Selecting and training peer educators. The workplace selects peer educators that are respected and have good communication skills. ACT trains peers for one week and provides a refresher course in 4-5 months. ACT, in collaboration with Family Health International, USAID`s implementing partner, and the Chamber of Mines, another workplace partner, developed a peer educator manual tailored to Namibia that is used in the trainings. ACT supervises peer educator sessions, and offers recommendations for improvement.
Reaching out to families and communities. Aside from the outreach and training in the workplace, peer educators often reach out to family members and members of the surrounding communities.
In Namibia, other focus areas for workplace programs include: promoting non-discrimination and confidentiality in policies and services; providing voluntary counseling and testing; offering prevention education and care/support services; and involving people living with HIV/AIDS in policy/program planning and implementation. |
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 HIV/AIDS PEER EDUCATORS TALKING HEALTH - 2001/10/16
A new team of fourteen peer educators completed their training in the second week of September at Rössing Mines, in Erongo, and joins an existing team of previously trained peer educators. Also attending the workshop were other business and community members who have shown an interest in the Rossing Mines Peer Education Program. The aim of the program is to reach as many people as possible in the workplace and in the community with important health messages and guidance towards positive behavior change, including responsible sexual behavior to prevent the spread of sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV/AIDS. |
Simonee Shihepo, from the Chamber of Mines, and the Health Coordinator for their OHEAP (Occupational Health Education and Assistance Program) conducted the training. The Chamber of Mines’ OHEAP program is partially supported by USAID/Namibia through its cooperating agency, Family Health International, which is providing technical and financial support to workplace interventions in three regions of Namibia. Ms. Shihepo described the group as "very determined and enthusiastic with lots of potential for further development and training."The new peer educators will receive additional training in the future. However, after the first course they are prepared for activities in the workplace and in their respective communities.
The training was reported in the in-house bulletin of Rössing Mines Ltd of September 14. Under the picture of the new team of peer educators is the caption: "Please support the volunteers, who took this important task upon them, to stay enthusiastic by giving them the opportunity to share their knowledge and skills". |
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 HIV/AIDS RETREAT FOR U.S. AGENCIES IN NAMIBIA - 2001/09/07
On August 16, 2001, a retreat on HIV/AIDS was held for employees of U.S. agencies in Namibia at the Kalahari Sands Hotel. The opportunity was provided to learn and openly talk more about this life-threatening disease. USAID’s Martin Tjituka acted as Master of Ceremonies and speakers included representatives from Catholic Aids Action, Aids Care Trust, Ministry of Health and Social Services and the Namibian network of AIDS Service Organizations. |
| Their inputs provoked lively discussion. The highlight of the retreat was a quiz show presented by Nahason Katjangua of the Ministry of Health and Social Services. Four Mission employees (all from USAID) went through to the final round of the competition. It was apparent from the sweating and fretting that the participants were extremely nervous. However, at the end of the quiz, two of the participants (Cloudina Ngavetene and Ali Ipinge) won a trip to Cape Town. Overall the outcome of the retreat was very positive and all the participants expressed their commitment to share and teach members of their families and communities on how to prevent the spread of HIV/AIDS. |
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SOUP KITCHEN OPENS IN WALVIS BAY - 2001/09/07
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| The newly launched Walvis Bay Multi-Purpose Center will now house a Soup Kitchen for orphans and vulnerable children (OVC) in Walvis Bay. Starting August 15, a small meal will be provided every Wednesday and Thursday at 1500 for an anticipated 80 OVCs from the communities. "The community`s involvement has been terrific", reports Beverly Figaji, MPC Director. Steve`s Takeaway will prepare food donated by local fishing companies and also provide 6 loaves of bread for the children. Catholic AIDS Action (CAA) will provide transport for the food to the Center. The Multi-Purpose Center was built with U.S. DoD funds on land donated by the Municipality of Walvis Bay, and USAID is financing the Center’s activities and administrative support. Peace Corps/Namibia is providing a crisis volunteer at the Center. |
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 NEW MULTI-PURPOSE CENTER - 2001/07/30
On 12 July 2001, the Deputy Minister of Health and Social Services, Hon. Richard Kamwi, and the Chargé d`Affaires of the U.S. Embassy of Namibia, Thurmond Borden, officiated at the opening of a new Multi Purpose Center at Kuisebmund in the coastal city of Walvis Bay. |
| The Municipality of Walvis Bay, the regional authorities (Erongo Region), and the national government (primarily through the Ministry of Health and Social Services and the Ministry of Basic Education, Sports, and Culture) recognized the necessity of bringing the entire community together to meet the needs of both in- and out-of-school youth, to promote literacy, and to combat the threat of the HIV-AIDS epidemic. They formed a broadly-based coalition to establish a center to provide needed services and HIV/AIDS prevention programs. In addition to local, regional, and national government representation, this coalition includes churches, the business community, and schools. The U.S. Government, through a unique combined inter-agency effort has provided the following: funding of the erection of the building by the United States Department of Defense on land donated by the municipality; USAID, working through its partner, Family Health International, has been instrumental in the start-up of activities at the center; and Peace Corps will assist in providing a volunteer to work with youth programs. Prominent participating NGOs include Walvis Bay Paralegal and Catholic AIDS Action. With a 28 percent HIV prevalence rate among pregnant women, Walvis Bay is the third most affected city in Namibia. The Center, since it opened its doors on May 1, has already commenced its program at full force, focusing on information, education, and communication about the nature of the disease; pre- and post-test counseling; condom distribution; and support groups for those infected and their relatives. The MPC`s Steering Committee, chaired by Mayor Theresia Samaria, is developing income generating projects and seeking to secure local funding sources so that the community can assume full financial responsibility for the MPC over time.The facility is a resource for the entire community and for all types of activities. This will ensure high utilization of the facility and facilitate the open integration of those infected and affected by HIV/AIDS into the community. |
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 HIV-AIDS, ORPHANS, AND EDUCATION - 2001/07/10
One of the most severe and heart-wrenching aspects of the HIV-AIDS epidemic is the impact on children. Some become infected with the disease through HIV+ mothers. Many others become orphans. Children affected by HIV-AIDS is a large and rapidly growing problem in Namibia. In 2000, there were an estimated 31,000 AIDS orphans. By 2006, the number of orphans in Namibia is projected to quadruple. One child in eight will be an AIDS orphan, some of these will, themselves, be infected. |
 Many AIDS orphans live in poverty, sometimes lacking the means to attend school. Without an education, they have little or no chance of ever escaping destitution. The resulting despair, lack of information about HIV/AIDS, and economic pressures to use sex to get food and other necessities, place these children at high risk of becoming infected and being conduits to further the epidemic`s spread. With Catholic AIDS Action (CAA), and with funding from the Education for Democracy and Development Initiative, USAID Namibia and its partner, Family Health International, launched a pilot program to provide education for children affected by AIDS. With the modest sum of $4,000, the goal was to provide education for 75 children. This included school fees, uniforms, and supplies. CAA left no stone unturned to contain costs and bargain down prices, including school fees. It was not always easy to get the children admitted. Sometimes the first response was that the school was overcrowded already and there was no more space. Nevertheless the obstacles were overcome and, instead of 75 children, in January 2001, 99 children entered school. Their fees were paid and all had new uniforms. For many of these children, it was the first time they had ever had new clothes. Their gratitude, elevation in self-image and hope and enthusiasm for school was and remains high. Reflecting this, six months later all 99 children are still in school. In the coming year, CAA hopes to expand the program to 1,000 children. During the second phase, CAA will help ad- ditional families claim support that the Namibian Government offers in discounting school fees while strengthening the ability of communities to assess orphan needs and provide much needed psychological support. |
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