Isabel Mendes-Siyamba is a dedicated health and economic development specialist with over 13 years of experience in managing the design, implementation, and monitoring and evaluation of large health programs in Namibia. Her technical expertise includes HIV prevention and treatment, sexual and reproductive health, training and capacity development, OVC care, TB care, malaria treatment, and WASH. Ms. Mendes-Siyamba has extensive experience working with key populations, as well as with Adolescent Girls and Young Women (AGYW) initiatives focused on reducing HIV transmission, teenage pregnancy and school dropout rates among AGYW. 

 

As an experienced leader, Ms. Mendes-Siyamba is skilled at managing multiple stakeholders with diverse interests to implement high quality programs that deliver results. She has a proven track record of working effectively with Global Fund, USAID and other donors, government, civil society, and development partners, and has built strong relationships with stakeholders including KP organizations, the Namibian Ministry of Health and Social Services (MOHSS), Chief Medical Officers in regions across Namibia, and with national technical working groups (TWGs) focused on HIV prevention and treatment, including the Combination Prevention TWG.  

 

Her academic qualifications include a Master’s degree in Health and Local Economic Development from the University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa, 2011; a Bachelors’ degree in Community Development and Adult Education, University of Namibia,  2007; and a Diploma in Adult Education and Community Development, University of Namibia, Windhoek, 2003.