NAMIBIA

Namibia has an HIV prevalence rate of 19.6 percent in adults ages 15 to 49 and shows signs of HIV epidemic stabilization. The primary mode of transmission is through sexual contact and mother-to-child transmission. Data compiled by the Ministry of Health and Social Services show that AIDS became the leading cause of death in Namibia in 1996. It is estimated that AIDS accounts for at least 50 percent of deaths among individuals ages 15 to 49. There is great variation in HIV prevalence rates from region to region in Namibia. Infection rates also differ by gender, with UNAIDS estimating that women account for 58 percent of all HIV infections. Other at-risk populations include migrant workers, people in prostitution, street children, and long distance drivers.

(source: PEPFAR Country Profile, June 2008)