Namibia, which has a youthful population demographic, faces a substantial HIV prevalence, predominantly spread through various forms of intercourse and mother-to-child transmission.

This study explored the HIV-related knowledge, attitudes and perceptions of youths in Havana, an informal settlement in Windhoek. The aim was to inform policy formulation towards achieving HIV/Aids eradication by 2030. Questionnaires, administered in English, were completed by 50 participants aged 19-30, predominantly comprising Grade 10 and 11 certificate holders.

The findings revealed a fair understanding of HIV/Aids among respondents, albeit with gaps in knowledge regarding disease mechanisms, historical context and antiretroviral therapy. The recommendations included establishing youth centres for education, integrating HIV/Aids into school curricula and addressing the vulnerability of adolescent girls and young women to HIV through targeted interventions.

The respondents advocated for regular testing, condom use and improved condom accessibility, suggesting a collective effort involving government, stakeholders and youth to combat the epidemic effectively.