Namibia is intensifying efforts to combat cervical cancer, a disease that continues to claim the lives of many women across the country.

According to the Minister for Health and Social Services, the health sector has been recording a high number of cervical cancer cases and premature deaths, largely linked to the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) – a virus primarily transmitted through sexual contact and recognised as the leading cause of cervical cancer.

In a major development, Health Minister Dr. Esperance Luvindao announced the introduction of the HPV vaccine in public facilities to benefit those eligible, free of charge.

"The Ministry of Health and Social Services is so proud and honoured to announce that we will introduce the HPV vaccine into the national routine immunisation schedule in the public health sector to allow lifesaving interventions for girls between the ages of 9 and 14. The vaccine will be launched in the first half of 2025, and of course, the exact date will be communicated in due course."

To reduce the risk of cervical cancer, she said the provision of the HPV vaccine to the targeted young girls is aimed at providing protection for them before they begin to engage in sexual activities. 

Luvindao appealed to political, traditional, and faith-based leaders, as well as NGOs and community stakeholders, to support the national HPV vaccination campaign.

"There is still a lot of misinformation when it comes to vaccines, and these are things that we must address for parents and caregivers to allow the targeted girls between the ages of 9 and 14 years of age to get the HPV vaccine when it is rolled out." 

The minister made the announcement at the recent World Health Day commemoration in Katima Mulilo.