Staff Reporter
THE Ministry of Health has revealed that the national stock of Wantai Colloidal Gold, used for primary HIV screening, is sufficient to meet the country’s needs for the next two to three months.
“The combined national stock of Colloidal Gold available across Central Medical Stores, the Oshakati and Rundu Regional Medical Stores, and health facilities currently amounts to approximately 2,400 boxes, providing 2 to 3 months of stock,” the Ministry’s Executive Director, Penda Ithindi, revealed.
He confirmed that the Ministry has placed an order for 15,650 units of Colloidal Gold, which is expected to be enough for 11 months. This stock is anticipated to arrive within 12 weeks, he added.
“To bridge the envisioned supply gap until this larger consignment arrives, the Ministry is actively exploring shorter lead-time procurement processes and continues with national redistribution of existing stock,” Ithindi said.
Wantai Colloidal Gold is one of three types of HIV test kits used in the national HIV testing algorithm to ensure accurate and reliable diagnosis. The other kits are Unigold, used for confirmatory testing, and Sure-Check, used as a tie-breaker test.
According to Ithindi, there is sufficient stock of Unigold for approximately six months, following recent deliveries. He confirmed that additional quantities of this confirmatory test are already planned and in the procurement pipeline to maintain a steady supply.
He further explained that Sure-Check, used for less than 2% of national HIV tests, remains available across the country, and procurement processes for additional supplies are currently underway. He revealed that redistribution of currently available stock continues to support uninterrupted testing services where needed.
“The Ministry of Health and Social Services remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring the continuous provision of essential medicines and diagnostic services to all Namibian people. While actively pursuing long-term procurement solutions, the Ministry is simultaneously implementing short-term mitigation measures, accelerating procurement actions, and optimising national redistribution strategies to address immediate needs and maintain service delivery. The Ministry appreciates the public’s understanding and continued support as it works diligently to strengthen the national health supply chain,” Ithindi added.
Picture for illustrative purposes only. Photo: Contributed
