The National Syndemic Disease Control Council (NSDC) is ramping up efforts to tackle rising HIV infections. Among them are adolescents, with behavioral change emerging as a cornerstone of its 2024 strategic plan currently under review in Homa Bay County.
Speaking during a two-day stakeholders’ workshop in Homa Bay town. The NSDC Regional Coordinator Stephen Oyugi expressed concern over the persistent vulnerability of adolescents to HIV. Despite significant progress in lowering the county’s overall prevalence rate.
“While we celebrate the sharp decline in HIV prevalence in Homa Bay. From 26.1 percent in 2022 to 10.6 percent in 2024. Adolescents are still at high risk, mainly due to unsafe sexual practices,” said Oyugi.
He underscored the need for robust behavioral change campaigns aimed at the youth. Stressing that increasing awareness, improving access to information, and rolling out community-based interventions. It will be vital in meeting national HIV prevention targets.
Meanwhile, in Busia County, the Department of Health has launched a state-of-the-art Viral Load Molecular Laboratory and HB Electrophoresis equipment. This is at the county referral hospital, in a significant boost to HIV management and diagnostic capabilities.
The advanced equipment will benefit over 40,000 residents in Busia, 20,000 patients from neighboring Vihiga County. More thousands from the transit population crossing through Siaya, Bungoma, Kakamega, and even bordering Uganda.
County health officials hailed the development as a game-changer in providing timely and accurate HIV testing. Also in monitoring, critical to managing the disease and improving treatment outcomes.
These parallel efforts reflect the national government’s broader strategy to curb new HIV infections. Especially among adolescents, while strengthening healthcare systems across counties.
With a renewed focus on youth-centered interventions and enhanced infrastructure. Kenya continues to make strides towards achieving its vision of an HIV-free generation.