Over 2,000 HIV patients to receive support as AHF reopens Mathare clinic

The Mathare clinic, a vital hub for rapid testing, aims to ensure prompt knowledge of one’s HIV status and deliver crucial services to HIV patients.

Speaking during the re-opening of the clinic, Mr Harry Kimtai, the Principal Secretary of the State Department for Medical Services, acknowledged AHF's partnership efforts with the Ministry of Health, praising the collaborative spirit in addressing challenges posed by the virus.

The ceremony also marked a celebration of AHF’s  15 years of providing HIV prevention and care services in Kenya.

"I express gratitude for the collaborative spirit shown by AHF and other like-minded organizations in addressing challenges posed by the virus. Our commitment to combating HIV remains resolute, and the government has now set up a legal framework to support investment in healthcare from donors and the private sector," he said.

The anniversary celebration comes just weeks after the National Syndemic Diseases Control Council (NSDCC) revealed that Kenya currently bears the 7th highest HIV burden globally. 

New HIV infections among children, adolescents, and young people, in 2022 reached an estimated 62 infections per week among those aged 10-19. NSDCC also announced that the most affected counties are Kisumu, Nairobi, Homabay, Siaya, Migori, Nakuru, Mombasa, Kakamega, Kiambu, and Kisii.

At the event, Dr. Samuel Kinyanjui, Country Director AHF Kenya, highlighted the urgency of addressing rising HIV infections, particularly in regions with historically lower burdens and among the youth. 

“The fact that 89% of them achieved viral suppression reflects positive outcomes from collaborative initiatives and we commend all sector players that made this possible,” he said.

The AHF Food for Health Programme, specifically designed to address food insecurity among vulnerable communities, aims to boost HIV treatment uptake by addressing nutritional needs.

Catherine Mumma, nominated senator for women affairs, advocated for an open conversation on sex and sex education, especially targeting teenagers, as a strategic approach to address the surge in HIV infections among this demographic.

Africa’s 100m record holder Ferdinand Omanyala, who is AHF’s youth ambassador also attended the forum and encouraged youth to live a healthy life.

“In the face of two HIV-related deaths every hour in Kenya, let's champion our health. Use condoms—it's not just protection; it's empowerment,” he said.