Dr. Ruth Laibon-Masha, CEO of the National Syndemic Disease Control Council (NSDCC), addressed a pressing crisis that could significantly impact Kenya’s healthcare system in relation to the HIV response. Speaking on the ongoing funding crisis on Citizen TV, she provided a thorough analysis of the challenges the country faces and the strategic measures being implemented to safeguard progress in the fight against HIV.

Kenya has long relied on the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) to support its HIV response. This initiative has been instrumental in providing life-saving medications, funding preventive measures, and supporting thousands of healthcare workers. However, the recent pause in U.S. foreign assistance has placed immense pressure on the country’s healthcare infrastructure.   Dr. Masha acknowledged the severity of the situation, stating, “It was too soon. We had been planning for a transition towards self-sustainability by 2030, but this shift came abruptly, leaving us scrambling for immediate solutions.”

With the withdrawal of funding, several crucial services stand to be affected. HIV testing, preventive programs, and treatments for opportunistic infections may all experience setbacks. Additionally, vulnerable populations such as sex workers, men who have sex with men, and people who inject drugs are at heightened risk of losing access to essential care. Beyond medication, Kenya also faces challenges in maintaining the infrastructure necessary to support HIV treatment, including data management systems and trained healthcare personnel.

Despite these concerns, Dr. Masha remains confident in Kenya’s ability to navigate this crisis. “We have a well-structured supply chain and a buffer stock of medications,” she assured. “Now, the focus is on ensuring the efficient allocation of available resources while identifying new funding sources.”

In response to the crisis, the Kenyan government and global partners have intensified efforts to secure alternative funding. Local pharmaceutical companies, such as Universal Corporation Limited, are increasing domestic production of antiretroviral (ARV) medications to reduce dependence on foreign aid. Furthermore, the Ministry of Health has established a crisis management team to devise both immediate and long-term strategies.

“We cannot afford to let people panic,” Dr. Masha emphasised. “Every individual receiving HIV treatment must be assured that their medication will remain available. Any disruption to treatment is simply not an option.”

With an April 19th deadline looming, healthcare leaders are working against the clock to secure Kenya’s HIV response. Negotiations with international stakeholders continue, while the government urges local communities to take an active role in preventive measures.

Dr. Masha framed the crisis as an opportunity for Kenya to reassess its healthcare financing model. “This is our chance to build a resilient, self-sustaining health system. It is a test of our endurance, but I am confident we will overcome it.”  The coming weeks will be crucial in determining Kenya’s ability to sustain its fight against HIV. As the world watches, one message remains clear: Kenya is committed to ensuring that those who depend on life-saving treatment are not left behind.

Watch the full interview here for more insight: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rEv4uV2bETs