DEAM Conference: Kenya Highlights Milestones in Fight Against HIV

Kenya has reached a major milestone in its fight against HIV, Medical Services Principal Secretary Harry Kimtai has revealed.

Kimtai said over 1.36 million people living with HIV in Kenya were receiving treatment by the end of 2024, surpassing the UNAIDS 98-98-94 targets.

The PS highlighted this achievement at the DEAM Conference on “Defeating HIV in Africa – An Achievable Goal” in Rome, Italy.

In his address on January 24, Kimtai pointed to significant progress, including a 78 per cent reduction in new HIV infections, a 68 per cent decrease in HIV-related deaths, and a 65 per cent drop in mother-to-child transmission.

He further praised the country’s successful integration of Dolutegravir (DTG) into treatment regimens, which has greatly improved treatment outcomes and accelerated viral suppression.

PS Kimtai also stressed Kenya’s ongoing commitment to addressing HIV drug resistance, integrating HIV care with the management of non-communicable diseases, and engaging communities to continue driving progress in the fight against the epidemic.

In addition, he affirmed that Kenya remains resolute in its goal to end AIDS as a public health threat by 2030, advancing innovative, evidence-based solutions and empowering community-led initiatives.