•Health Ministry Flags Off Critical HIV Commodities to Sustain Treatment and Prevention
Nairobi, Kenya| The Kenyan government has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring uninterrupted access to life-saving HIV treatment despite recent global funding challenges.
Health Cabinet Secretary Dr. Deborah Mlongo Barasa assured the public that the supply of antiretroviral drugs (ARVs) will remain stable, emphasizing that no HIV patient should experience shortages or disruptions in their treatment.
This assurance follows the recent decision by the U.S. government to suspend funding for most of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) activities worldwide.
USAID has long been a key partner in supporting Kenya’s HIV response, particularly in the procurement and distribution of ARVs.
The funding cut had raised concerns among people living with HIV (PLHIV) in Kenya, many of whom rely on government-supported HIV treatment programs.
“As a government, we are committed to making sure no patient using ARVs suffers supply challenges, and nobody should panic,” Dr. Barasa stated.
She emphasized that all healthcare centers distributing ARVs will continue to receive the necessary supplies to maintain patient immunity and prevent treatment interruptions.
Flagging Off HIV Commodities at MEDS
In a significant demonstration of this commitment, Dr. Barasa today flagged off a large consignment of essential HIV commodities at the Mission for Essential Drugs and Supplies (MEDS) in Nairobi.
The flagged-off supplies will be distributed across health facilities nationwide to sustain HIV care and prevention efforts.
The event was attended by key health officials, including Principal Secretary for Public Health and Professional Standards, Ms. Mary Muthoni, and the Chief Executive Officer of the Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (KEMSA).
Dr. Barasa reaffirmed the Ministry of Health’s unwavering dedication to securing a steady supply of ARVs and other critical HIV-related commodities.
Kenya’s HIV Response and Progress
Kenya has made significant strides in combating HIV, nearing the UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets, with a reported 98-98-94 progress rate.
These targets aim for 95% of people living with HIV to know their status, 95% of diagnosed individuals to receive sustained antiretroviral therapy, and 95% of those on treatment to achieve viral suppression.
This progress has been driven by a strong partnership between the Ministry of Health, KEMSA, MEDS, and county governments, ensuring an efficient supply chain for HIV care.
Contents of the Flagged-Off Consignment
The consignment includes ARV drugs, such as Tenofovir/Lamivudine/Dolutegravir (TLD) and pediatric formulations, ensuring that both adults and children living with HIV continue receiving effective treatment.
Also included are HIV testing kits, which support Kenya’s 3-Test Algorithm for accurate and reliable HIV diagnosis. These kits are essential in ensuring that more individuals are tested and linked to care.
Additionally, the shipment contains Early Infant Diagnosis (EID) and Viral Load testing reagents, which will help in timely diagnosis and monitoring of infants born to HIV-positive mothers, ensuring they receive appropriate care and intervention.
To support ongoing HIV prevention efforts, the consignment also includes male condoms, which remain a key component in reducing HIV transmission and promoting safer sexual practices.
Future Strategies for Sustained HIV Care
Dr. Barasa highlighted several strategies that the government is implementing to strengthen Kenya’s HIV response.
One of these is promoting local pharmaceutical manufacturing, which aims to reduce reliance on international donors and establish a sustainable supply of ARVs.
Another focus is integrating HIV care into Universal Health Coverage (UHC) to improve accessibility and affordability of treatment, ensuring that every patient can receive care without financial hardship.
The Ministry is also leveraging digital platforms to enhance efficiency in tracking and distributing HIV commodities, ensuring that health facilities nationwide have timely access to essential supplies.
Commitment to an HIV-Free Future
The government’s continued investment in HIV treatment and prevention reflects its broader vision of an HIV-free Kenya.
The Health Ministry remains committed to ensuring no patient is left behind, despite global funding shifts.
With the newly flagged-off supplies and strengthened domestic strategies, Kenya aims to sustain its progress in HIV care and move closer to achieving the ultimate goal of ending the HIV epidemic.
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