Kenya, with approximately 1.3 million HIV-positive individuals, has recently reported approximately 22,000 new cases.
Despite this figure reflecting a decrease in new HIV cases compared to previous years, the nation faces mounting pressure to achieve zero new infections by 2030.
The ambitious goal of zero new HIV infections by 2030 coincides with the anticipated withdrawal of support from donors who have been pivotal in financing HIV services in the country.
Dr. Daglas Bosire of the National Syndemic Disease Control Council emphasized the urgency of this target during a science café organized by Media for Environment Science, Health and Agriculture (MESHA) in Homabay County.
He stressed that Kenya’s survival hinges on ending new HIV infections by 2030, especially in anticipation of donor support withdrawal.
Dr. Bosire highlighted the financial strain the country would face if donor support were to cease, citing that nearly 85% of the country’s HIV response is currently funded by these donors. Consequently, reducing new HIV cases to zero within the specified timeframe is imperative.
The Ministry of Health, along with its partners, has maintained a strategic focus on youth and adolescents, who account for a significant percentage of new HIV infections.
Ministry data from 2022 reveals that the majority of new HIV cases, out of the 22,000 reported, were among individuals aged 14-24 years.
Caroline Kinoti, a Public Support Officer at the National Syndemic Disease Control Council, emphasized the government’s concerted efforts to address the HIV epidemic among youth and adolescents.
Kinoti underscored the importance of combating the triple threats of HIV, teen pregnancy, and gender-based violence, which disproportionately affect young people.
To achieve this, the ministry is committed to implementing twelve key commitments aimed at addressing these challenges and reducing new infections.
These commitments include initiatives to decrease HIV infections among youth, increase access to diagnosis and treatment, delay the age of sexual debut, and facilitate smoother transitions to secondary education.
Despite these efforts, some stakeholders argue that youth and adolescents have been inadequately involved in HIV prevention programs.
Millicent Nyaidho from Homa Bay County and Collet Awuor advocate for greater youth participation in HIV prevention efforts, emphasizing the effectiveness of peer-led interventions in addressing issues such as HIV, teenage pregnancy, and gender-based violence.
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