The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
Related Articles
The Ministry of Health has reiterated its commitment to sustaining HIV/AIDS treatment and prevention programs despite the U.S. withdrawal.
President Donald Trump announced the U.S.’s exit from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the suspension of global health aid, including funding from the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), which has had a significant impact on Africa and other developing nations.
Click here to join our WhatsApp Channel
In a weekly 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 programs, disease prevention efforts, and strengthening the health system.
“Kenya has made considerable progress in the fight against HIV/AIDS, with 98% of people living with HIV aware of their status and on treatment, and 94% achieving viral suppression. The Ministry is working closely with other partners and investing in local pharmaceutical production to ensure treatment continuity,” said Dr. Amoth.
Dr. Amoth also stressed the importance of enhancing regional partnerships and seeking alternative health financing solutions to maintain access to essential medications and healthcare services for people living with HIV.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has expressed concern about President Trump’s decision to cut funding for HIV programs in low- and middle-income countries, a move that could jeopardize the health of over 30 million people worldwide.
WHO reported that by the end of 2023, 39.9 million people were living with HIV, and funding cuts could lead to increased infections and deaths. The organization warned that this decision could severely reverse progress in global health partnerships and hinder advances in diagnostics, affordable treatments, and community-based HIV care models.
WHO has committed to supporting PEPFAR, other partners, and national governments to manage the transition and reduce the impact on those living with HIV.
PEPFAR, a key component of the global HIV response, has been operational for more than 20 years, providing treatment to over 20 million people, including 566,000 children under 15, across 50+ countries.
In other health news, the Ministry reported an increase in Social Health Authority (SHA) registrations, with over 18.5 million Kenyans now enrolled. Mombasa County saw remarkable growth, with a 58% increase in just eight days, bringing the county’s registration rate to 43.5%, the highest in the country.
“Mombasa’s success shows that community-driven strategies can significantly increase SHA enrollment. We encourage other counties to adopt similar approaches to expand healthcare access,” Dr. Amoth noted.
He attributed the surge to the Rapid Results Initiative (RRI), which uses schools, community health promoters, and local leaders to encourage registration.
