Kenya celebrates 68% drop in AIDS-related deaths

KENYA —Kenya has made significant strides in reducing the impact of HIV/AIDS, achieving an impressive 68% reduction in AIDS-related deaths over the past decade.

This revelation was made by to the Principal Secretary for Medical Services, Mr Harry Kimtai, who noted  that the number of deaths has decreased from 58,446 in 2013 to 18,473 in 2022.

Furthermore, new HIV infections have dropped dramatically, from 101,448 in 2013 to 22,154 in the same time.

Mr. Kimtai emphasized the importance of a strong HIV Sustainability Operational Plan that is aligned with Kenya’s national ambitions and realities and will serve as a model for maintaining and building on previous achievements.

He emphasized that its achievement will necessitate a concerted effort, new thinking, and unwavering commitment from all parties.

During the steering committee’s initial meeting, Mr. Kimtai held a fruitful discussion with leaders from several health sector organizations in order to sustain and grow on these successes.

This group will develop and implement an operational plan to maintain the gains of the HIV response.

He urged all participants to focus on closing gaps and ensuring rapid progress beyond 2030.

“Let us move forward with resolve and unity to shape a future where HIV no longer poses a threat to our nation’s health, development, and prosperity,” he added.

The creation of the steering committee is a significant step forward in Kenya’s continuous efforts to battle HIV/AIDS, demonstrating the country’s commitment to accomplishing long-term health and development objectives.

Furthermore, the collaboration among multiple health-care stakeholders demonstrates a comprehensive approach to addressing the disease.

In a related development, Dr. Rose Wafula, Head of the National AIDS and STI Control Program (NASCOP), and Dr. Waqo Erjesa, CEO of the Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (KEMSA), met with their respective HIV Commodity and technical teams to strengthen HIV management and prevention efforts in Kenya.

The discussion focused on ensuring constant supply and distribution of HIV commodities across the country, and it was reiterated during the conference that important HIV commodities remain constantly available and stable.

To maintain uninterrupted services, KEMSA has created a 72-hour Rapid Result Initiative (RRI), which will assure ongoing access and distribution of critical HIV drugs.

Over 1.3 million Kenyans receive antiretroviral (ARV) medication to maintain viral suppression.

In addition to ARVs, these people receive a number of preventative services and commodities, such as PEP and PrEP, condoms, needle and syringe exchange programs, and opiate substitution therapy.

Dr. Wafula emphasized the importance of collaboration between NASCOP and KEMSA, noting that this partnership has significantly advanced Kenya’s efforts in managing and preventing HIV.

The availability and distribution of these health products are vital to the country’s HIV response. They will ensure that the progress made over the past decade is not only sustained but also expanded upon in the coming years.