Summary

The National Syndemic Diseases Control Council (NSDCC) had the honour of hosting Hon. Aden Duale, EGH, Cabinet Secretary for Health at its exhibition during the Devolution Sensitization Week (DSW) 2026 in Garissa County. The event which took place from 27 July to 1 August 2026 under the theme "Devolution for Better Health, Empowered Communities," brought together national and county stakeholders to strengthen collaboration in delivering quality healthcare services across the country.
During a tour of the exhibition, the Cabinet Secretary, accompanied by Council of Governors (CoG) Chief Executive Officer Ms. Mary Mwiti, EBS was taken through the Council's multi-sectoral approach in the response to HIV and other syndemic diseases. NSDCC also highlighted key interventions being implemented to strengthen prevention, testing, treatment, care and community engagement.
The CS received an update on the HIV situation in Garissa County where 27 new HIV infections were recorded in 2025. Although the county ranks 42nd nationally in HIV burden, an estimated 2,246 people are living with HIV. The briefing underscored the continued need for sustained investments in prevention, early diagnosis, treatment and public awareness as well as stronger collaboration between the national and county governments to accelerate progress towards ending HIV as a public health threat.
NSDCC offered free health services to the public including HIV testing, cancer, diabetes and hypertension screening, alongside health education and nutritional advice aimed at promoting healthier lifestyles and encouraging early health-seeking behaviour.
The Council remains committed to working with the Ministry of Health, county governments, development partners and communities to deliver evidence-based interventions that strengthen the national response to HIV and other syndemic diseases. Through sustained partnerships, innovation and public education, it continues to support Kenya's journey towards healthier, more resilient communities and the achievement of national and global health goals.