By Tajeu Shadrack Nkapapa
The HIV Service Delivery Integration Summit opened in Mombasa with a focus on strengthening Kenya’s response to HIV/AIDS through enhanced collaboration and innovative strategies.
Health Cabinet Secretary Nakhumicha S. Wafula, in her virtual opening remarks, highlighted the critical role of integrated healthcare in combating the epidemic.
Significant strides were made in the fight against HIV in Kenya and she rejoiced over the remarkable progress achieved in reducing infection rates and enhancing care for 1.4 million Kenyans living with the virus.
The CS attributed the success to the implementation of strategic frameworks, the backing of supportive legislation, and the establishment of strong healthcare systems.
Underscoring the importance of efficiency and equity, she emphasized the need to integrate HIV services into comprehensive healthcare models.
The summit, attended by health professionals and policymakers, aims to align Kenya’s HIV response with broader healthcare reforms, including Universal Health Coverage.
Nakhumicha called for investments in local pharmaceutical manufacturing and digital health solutions, citing the Digital Health Act 2023 as crucial for innovation.
Expressing optimism, she anticipated policy shifts and investments that would help end HIV/AIDS as a public health threat and encouraged PLWH to register with the Social Health Authority for comprehensive care management.
On Day 2 of the HIV Service Delivery Integration Summit taking place today on Wednesday 19TH June 2024, the focus will be on practical aspects of service integration, including models, service packages, and outcomes.
Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni from the State Department for Public Health and Professional Standards reiterated the government’s dedication to eliminating HIV during a community dialogue awareness program in Meru County.
She emphasized the introduction of the End Triple Threat Initiative, which aims to address HIV, teenage pregnancy, and gender-based violence.
Muthoni underscored the pivotal role of Community Health Promoters trained under the Primary Health Care model to provide essential health education and facilitate appropriate care referrals. She urged all stakeholders to intensify awareness efforts and combat stigma, emphasizing the importance of collective action in transforming Kenya into a beacon of hope.
“Our goal is to eliminate the triple burden of HIV, teenage pregnancies, and gender-based violence. Let us persevere until Kenya stands as a beacon of hope, achieved through united efforts,” Muthoni emphasized.