‘Getting to Zero a personal commitment’

‘Make getting to Zero a personal commitment’, these were the words of Markus Lubbe, acting CEO of Namdeb as he encouraged employees who joined the rest of the world to commemorate World Aids Day on 1 December.
In his message, Lubbe said “making Getting-to-Zero a personal commitment entails supporting those infected and affected by the HIV/AIDS through showing our understanding, giving love, encouragement whilst providing support without judgement”
In 2002, Namdeb became the first organisation in Namibia to provide antiretroviral medicine (ARVs) to employees and extended this support to spouses, life partners and dependants.
Namdeb’s Wellness section educates and raises awareness of early testing and prevention measures such as ABC (Abstain, Be faithful, Condomise) and medical male circumcision. Through the Wellness section objectives, the support of employees as well as residents of communities impacted by its operations, Namdeb says it makes a conscious effort to contribute towards the World Health Organisation 90-90-90 treatment target objective.
This is an ambitious treatment target put in place to help end the AIDS pandemic. It dictates that by 2020, 90% of people living with HIV/AIDS will know their HIV status; 90% of people diagnosed with HIV will have access to anti-retroviral treatment (ARV) and 90% of those on ARV will adhere to treatment and have undetectable levels of HIV in their blood.