Kenya commemorated 40 years since the first reported HIV case with a vibrant and impactful World AIDS Day 2024 celebration at Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi. The event presided over by the Cabinet Secretary for Health, Dr. Deborah Barasa, reflected on the nation’s progress in combating HIV and issued a renewed call to address challenges hindering the achievement of ending AIDS by 2030.

A key highlight of the event was the launch of the 10-year HIV Progress Report, which underscored Kenya’s significant milestones. The report reveals that an estimated 1.378 Million Kenyans are living with HIV, with 97% receiving treatment through a robust network of 3,752 treatment sites. Dr. Barasa lauded these achievements, noting that Kenya is on track to meet the UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets by 2025—aiming for 95% of people living with HIV to know their status, 95% of those diagnosed to access treatment, and 95% of those on treatment to achieve viral suppression.

However, she highlighted the persistent gaps, particularly in reducing new infections among children and youth and integrating HIV care with other health services. “We have made great strides, but we cannot afford to be complacent. Persistent inequalities must be addressed to sustain our progress,” she emphasized.

Dr. Barasa acknowledged the critical role of international partners such as PEPFAR, the Global Fund, and UNAIDS in supporting Kenya’s journey towards an AIDS-free future. “Their contributions have been instrumental, but sustained collaboration at both global and local levels is essential to achieve our shared vision,” she remarked.

Principal Secretary for Medical Services, Mr. Harry K. Kimtai, reinforced this year’s theme, “Promoting the Health and Well-Being of Men and Boys.” While celebrating Kenya’s success in controlling the epidemic, he noted that the 16,752 new HIV infections recorded in 2023, 39% of which were among adolescents aged 15-24, highlight the vulnerabilities faced by young people.

“This underscores the triple threat of new HIV infections, unintended pregnancies, and gender-based violence,” he said. Mr. Kimtai stressed the importance of targeted strategies for men and boys, who, despite representing only 35% of people living with HIV in Kenya, account for nearly half of AIDS-related deaths. “Their health and well-being are critical to achieving our national and global HIV goals,” he asserted.

The event also featured the World AIDS Day Half Marathon, dubbed “It’s a Race Against Time.” The marathon advocated for ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030. Winners Jonathan Korir and Viola Chemweno were celebrated for their inspiring performances in the 21km races. Korir clocked an impressive 1:02:48, securing his first gold medal in Kenya, while Chemweno triumphed with a time of 1:10:04, achieving a double victory following her success at the AK Bomet Cross-Country event. Their determination symbolized the resilience needed in Kenya’s fight against HIV and AIDS.

National Syndemic Diseases Control Council (NSDCC) Chairman, Geoffrey Gitu, emphasized the marathon’s symbolic importance. “Whether you ran 2 or 21 kilometres, this event sends a powerful message of unity and determination to achieve an AIDS-free Kenya by 2030,” he said. He also highlighted the need to engage men and boys in addressing broader health challenges, including substance abuse, unintended pregnancies, and gender-based violence.

Dr. Ruth Laibon-Masha, CEO of the NSDCC, presented sobering statistics, revealing Kenya’s national HIV prevalence rate of 3.3% rises to 18.7% among people who inject drugs. Despite progress, 2023 saw 20,478 AIDS-related deaths, including 2,607 children aged 0-14. Dr. Masha called for targeted interventions and addressing inequities to sustain momentum in the fight against HIV.

The 2024 World AIDS Day celebration served as a powerful reflection of Kenya’s achievements over the past four decades while issuing a rallying call for sustained action. Dr. Barasa underscored the importance of unity, innovation, and human rights in achieving Kenya’s goal of ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.

“Ending AIDS is not just achievable; it is cost-effective. The actions we take now will determine whether we overcome this challenge or face greater hurdles in the future,” she stated.

Blending reflection, celebration, and a forward-looking call to action, this year’s commemoration reaffirmed Kenya’s unwavering commitment to an AIDS-free future. Through innovative strategies, inclusivity, and collective determination, Kenya is poised to realize this vision by 2030.