Kenya strengthens HIV treatment amid global funding changes

Kenya strengthens HIV treatment amid global funding changes

KENYA – Kenya’s Ministry of Health has reaffirmed its dedication to ensuring the continuation of HIV/AIDS treatment and prevention programs, even in the wake of the U.S. decision to withdraw from global health initiatives.

This follows President Donald Trump’s announcement to pull the U.S. out of the World Health Organization (WHO) and suspend global health funding, including support from the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), which has been a key contributor to health programs across Africa and other developing regions.

During a media briefing in Mombasa, Dr. Patrick Amoth, the Director General for Health, emphasized the vital role the U.S. has played in supporting Kenya’s HIV initiatives, disease prevention efforts, and the overall strengthening of the country’s health system.

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He pointed out that Kenya has made significant strides in the battle against HIV/AIDS, with 98% of people living with HIV aware of their status and undergoing treatment, and 94% of them achieving viral suppression.

He added, “The Ministry is actively working with other development partners and investing in local pharmaceutical manufacturing to prevent disruptions in treatment.”

Dr. Amoth further highlighted that the Ministry is also enhancing regional collaborations and exploring alternative health financing strategies to ensure continued access to essential medications and healthcare services for those living with HIV.

The World Health Organization expressed deep concern following the U.S. decision, noting that it could jeopardize the health of over 30 million people globally. WHO warned that the disruption in funding could lead to a rise in new infections and deaths.

Furthermore, it cautioned that such a move would set back decades of progress in global health partnerships and hinder advancements in areas such as diagnostics, affordable medicines, and community-based HIV care models.

WHO committed to supporting PEPFAR, other partners, and national governments to manage the transition effectively and minimize the negative impact on people living with HIV.

PEPFAR, a key component of the global HIV response for over 20 years, has provided life-saving treatment to more than 26 million people, including 566,000 children under the age of 15, across over 50 countries. Its continuation is vital for sustaining progress in the fight against HIV.

In addition to these concerns, the Ministry also reported a significant increase in the registration for the Social Health Authority (SHA), with over 18.5 million Kenyans now enrolled.

Mombasa County has seen the most substantial growth, with a 58% increase in just eight days, bringing the county’s registration rate to 43.5% of its population—the highest in the country.

Dr. Amoth attributed this success to the Rapid Results Initiative (RRI), which uses schools, community health promoters, and local leaders to drive enrolment.

He remarked, “Mombasa’s success shows that community-driven strategies can effectively boost SHA enrollment. We encourage other counties to adopt similar methods to expand healthcare access.”