Kiambu County Marks Progress in HIV/AIDS Fight with Reduced Prevalence
Nairobi – Kiambu County has witnessed a notable decrease in HIV/AIDS prevalence, with the rate dropping from 2.3 percent to 2.1 percent. Kiambu County Governor Kimani Wamatangi announced this significant decline, highlighting a reduction in cases from 729 in 2022 to 547 currently. This announcement was made during the World AIDS Day commemoration at Ndumberi Stadium, where Deputy Governor Rosemary Kirika read the Governor’s speech on his behalf.
According to Kenya News Agency, this positive trend is largely due to enhanced HIV testing, awareness campaigns, accessible testing facilities, and community outreach programs. The reduction in mother-to-child infections from 8 percent to 5.5 percent was particularly encouraging. The Governor emphasized the crucial role of these initiatives in boosting healthcare efficiency and contributing to the achievement of Universal Health Coverage.
Wamatangi noted that HIV-related deaths in the county have also decreased, from 663 in 2021 to 502 in 2022. He attributed this improvement to the successful outreach efforts that have enabled more individuals to receive timely diagnosis and care. The increased uptake of antiretroviral drugs (ARVs) and health education have been pivotal in this progress.
The Governor also addressed the importance of combating stigma and discrimination against those living with HIV/AIDS, underscoring the need for collective support and understanding. He expressed gratitude to the national government for the continued supply of ARVs.
In addition to these measures, the Governor proposed further support for community-based HIV prevention interventions and emphasized the successful viral suppression among children and adolescents living with HIV. He also mentioned the integration of electronic medical records in health facilities, enhancing data quality and informed decision-making.
Governor Wamatangi highlighted the ongoing project supported by the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief, focusing on HIV prevention, care, and treatment in four facilities within Juja Sub County. He stressed the importance of remaining vigilant and resolute in addressing the challenges of HIV/AIDS, particularly among the youth.
Dr. Eddah Mbugua from Health and Research Development (PHRD) in Thika, part of KEMRI, mentioned ongoing studies to make HIV care more accessible, including home delivery of HIV self-test kits. She also discussed efforts to introduce pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) more widely.
Health Promoter Volunteer Emily Njeri from Kabete Sub County shared the challenges faced in their work, especially in providing support to those affected by HIV. She highlighted the need for home testing kits and health officials’ home visits.
Njeri also urged parents to vaccinate their young girls against the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), citing the close relationship between HIV and HPV. She emphasized the vaccine’s role in reducing the risk of cervical cancer.
Kenya’s overall HIV statistics show 1.4 million people living with the virus, with 96% on treatment. Kiambu ranks eighth nationally in HIV prevalence. The National Syndemic Diseases Control Council (NSDCC) reported 18,473 AIDS-related deaths in Kenya in 2022.