Kenya Marks World AIDS Day 2024
Kenya joined the global community in celebrating World AIDS Day 2024 on Sunday. The nation reaffirmed its commitment to eradicating HIV/AIDS as a public health threat and issued a call to action.
The celebrations also marked the 40th anniversary of the virus’s discovery, recognizing the substantial progress made in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
Key health partners, Cabinet Secretary for Health Dr. Deborah M. Barasa, Principal Secretaries Mr. Harry Kimtai (Medical Services) and Ms. Mary Muthoni (Public Health and Professional Standards), and Director General for Health Dr. Patrick Amoth graced the occasion, which took place at Nyayo Stadium.
In her address, Dr. Barasa stressed the vital role that men and boys play in the battle against HIV, calling on them to spearhead community initiatives, combat stigma, and encourage health-seeking behaviors.
“The fight against HIV is a collective effort, and men and boys must be champions for change,” she stated.
By the end of 2023, 97% of people living with HIV had achieved viral suppression, and 98% were undergoing treatment, according to the most recent data from the National Syndemic Diseases Control Council (NSDCC). This shows that Kenya has made significant progress in its HIV response.
The survey also found that while new HIV infections have declined by 83% over the past ten years, AIDS-related mortality has decreased by 64%.
Despite these achievements, Dr. Barasa acknowledged that significant challenges persist, particularly in addressing the specific needs of disproportionately affected groups such as men, children, and youth.
In addition to presenting Kenya's strategy objective to achieve self-sufficiency in HIV response by 2030, the Cabinet Secretary emphasized the importance of continuous innovation and progress in the health system.
Dr. Barasa restated Kenya's commitment to Universal Health Coverage (UHC), which would guarantee all individuals, particularly those living in underprivileged areas, fair access to healthcare.
Source: Ministry of Health
Photo by Ministry of Health
Tags: Ministry Of Health
