By Tajeu Shadrack Nkapapa
The Cabinet Secretary for Health, Dr. Deborah Barasa Mlongo, opened the 55th UNAIDS Programme Coordinating Board (PCB) session in Nairobi, the first in Africa in nearly two decades. The meeting brought together global leaders, including UNAIDS Executive Director Dr. Winnie Byanyima, to discuss strategies to combat HIV/AIDS.
Dr. Mlongo emphasized the advancements made by Kenya, noting an 83% decrease in new infections and a 65% reduction in AIDS-related fatalities over the last ten years.
He reiterated Kenya’s dedication to eradicating HIV/AIDS, aligning with President William Ruto’s vision for universal healthcare.
She called for bold, inclusive strategies and renewed African solidarity to address funding gaps and strengthen leadership in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
The meeting, led by Mr. Harry Kimtai, Principal Secretary for Medical Services, also concentrated on the mid-term evaluation of the Global AIDS Strategy, highlighting the importance of community empowerment and international cooperation in the pursuit of the objective to eradicate AIDS by 2030.
Kenya is hosting the 55th UNAIDS Programme Coordinating Board (PCB) meeting from 20th to 12th December 2024.
This is the first time in 18 years that the PCB meeting is being held in Africa, with Lusaka in 2006 being the previous host.
According to the Ministry of Health Africa remains the continent most affected by the HIV epidemic, making this meeting a crucial moment for advancing global efforts in addressing HIV/AIDS.