Allexer Namundjebo
The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine has arrived in Namibia and is currently available only in private healthcare facilities.
The Ministry of Health and Social Services is finalising plans to roll out the vaccine nationwide through public health facilities.
Walters Kamaya, the ministry’s public relations officer, confirmed the vaccine’s availability in the private sector.
“The HPV vaccine is available in the private sector, and the government is currently determining a date to launch it in the public sector,” he said.
This comes as the ministry postponed a media engagement that coincided with the vaccine’s arrival at Hosea Kutako International Airport last month.
The ministry confirmed the vaccine is in the country but did not disclose the quantity or source.
“The issues of those vaccines – that is why we postponed the media engagement, because we are still fixing a few things, and we are still doing campaigns about them,” Kamaya told Windhoek Observer.
Earlier this year, the ministry’s former executive director, Ben Nangombe, said the procurement process had begun and was progressing through regulatory and compliance steps.
“We have identified the product to be used in Namibia, and the procurement has also been initiated,” Nangombe said.
Dr Ilona Sheehama, a specialist at Oshakati Intermediate Hospital, said the vaccine was not yet available in public hospitals and was limited to private institutions, where medical aid coverage is required.
She made these remarks during a session on cervical cancer at the hospital.
The HPV vaccine protects against viruses mainly transmitted through sexual contact.
These viruses can cause cervical, anal, throat, and penile cancers, as well as genital warts.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) identifies persistent HPV infection as the main risk factor for cervical cancer, a leading cause of death among women in low- and middle-income countries, including Namibia.
The Ministry plans to include the vaccine in the national immunisation schedule, targeting girls aged 9 to 14 years.
The rollout will use a school-based campaign across all 14 regions.
Last year, the Cabinet approved a phased rollout starting with 10% of the target population of about 4,000 girls, expanding to 70% coverage over three years.
The Cabinet also supported procuring the Gardasil vaccine through UNICEF and authorised a national campaign to raise awareness about HPV vaccinations for cancer prevention.
Former health minister Dr Kalumbi Shangula said, “We are busy with preparations for the introduction of HPV vaccines. Once ready, we shall inform the public and embark on awareness campaigns.”
According to current data, Namibia diagnoses about 236 women with cervical cancer annually, resulting in 135 deaths.
The Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends HPV vaccination at ages 11–12 but allows vaccination as early as age nine.
Two doses, six to twelve months apart, provide maximum protection.
More than 100 countries have added the HPV vaccine to their immunisation schedules, according to the WHO.
Kenya introduced the vaccine free to 10-year-old girls in 2019.
Namibia plans to offer a single-dose intramuscular injection.
Girls with compromised immune systems, such as those living with HIV, will receive additional doses.
Health experts say introducing the HPV vaccine aligns Namibia with global strategies to eliminate cervical cancer as a public health threat.
Studies show the vaccine reduces HPV infections, genital warts, and precancerous cervical lesions when given before sexual activity.
Vaccine hesitancy remains an issue in some communities due to misinformation and cultural beliefs.
The Ministry has started public education and involved community leaders, educators, and parents to promote vaccine acceptance.
Healthcare professionals urge parents and guardians to support the vaccination program.
Evidence from countries with strong HPV vaccination campaigns shows declines in HPV-related diseases and precancerous conditions.
The vaccine is considered safe, and the WHO notes minor side effects like pain, swelling, or redness at the injection site.
Some recipients may experience fatigue, mild fever, or muscle aches. Severe reactions are extremely rare, occurring in about 1.7 cases per million doses.
The health ministry assured the public that all safety protocols will be followed during vaccine administration in schools and clinics, with trained medical staff available to monitor any adverse effects.
