President William Ruto has reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030, calling for stronger prevention, treatment, and youth-focused support services.
His message was delivered by the Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, H.E. Musalia Mudavadi, at the World AIDS Day Half Marathon held at Nyayo National Stadium.
“The President noted that HIV and AIDS remain a major public health challenge, particularly for adolescents and young people, citing teenage pregnancies and rising new infections as areas of concern,” read the message by Ruto.
“He acknowledged significant progress in Kenya’s HIV response, with 87 per cent of people living with HIV now on treatment and increased investments enabling HIV-free births,” read the message in part.
In the speech Ruto also announced that Kenya will introduce injectable HIV treatment next year to improve access and adherence.
He went on reaffirming the Government’s focus on Universal Health Coverage, including social health insurance reforms and sustained investment in health systems, despite declining global donor support.
At the time, Mudavadi praised the strong multisector partnerships led by the National Syndemic Diseases Control Council (NSDCC), urging continued unity to address the triple threat of HIV, teenage pregnancy, and sexual and gender-based violence.
Notably, according to the Ministry of Health, the Kenya AIDS Integration Strategic Framework (2025–2030) and the World AIDS Progress Report were also launched, marking key milestones in guiding Kenya’s HIV response for the next five years.
How to end HIV stigma
Meanwhile, as the World marks AIDs day,it is important to note that ending the stigma around HIV and AIDS starts with awareness, empathy, and action. Despite medical advances, many people living with HIV still face discrimination, fear, and isolation barriers that prevent them from accessing care, support, and living full lives.
As an individual, you have many ways to take action to reduce the stigma and discrimination you may be facing.
Educate yourself and others
Discrimination against people with HIV is often rooted in a lack of understanding about the virus and how it spreads. Contact your local public health department to find community-based organizations that provide HIV/AIDS information, counseling, and testing.
Know your rights
Federal law protects people with disabilities, including those with HIV infection, from discrimination. Laws such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Fair Housing Act protect your rights in the workplace, in housing, and in other settings.
