MONDAY, JULY 29, 2024. Kenya has gained international acclaim for its global fight against HIV/AIDS. This recognition came during the recently concluded International AIDS Conference 2024 in Munich, Germany, July 22 - 26, where Kenya's progress was highlighted as a testament to the country's commitment to ending the AIDS epidemic.
The five-day conference, aptly themed "Putting People First," saw Kenya's delegation led by Dr. Rose Wafula, Head of the National AIDS and STI Control Programme, showcase the country's remarkable strides in HIV control. The spotlight on Kenya's success story was a defining moment of the event, demonstrating that with dedicated efforts, ending AIDS is indeed within reach.
UNAIDS Executive Director Winnie Byanyima praised Kenya's accomplishments, stating: "Kenya's current progress of 95-95-90 cascade reflects substantial advancement as reflected in the report."
This progress refers to the UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets, which aim to ensure that by 2025: 95% of people living with HIV know their status, 95% of those diagnosed receive sustained antiretroviral therapy, and 95% of those receiving treatment achieve viral suppression.
Kenya has impressively achieved a 95-95-90 ratio, surpassing the initial targets of 95-90-86. This means that 95% of Kenyans know their HIV status, 95% of those diagnosed are on treatment, and 90% have achieved viral suppression. These figures not only demonstrate Kenya's commitment to fighting HIV/AIDS but also place the country among the global leaders in AIDS control efforts.
The UNAIDS report, titled "The Urgency for now, AIDS at a crossroad," highlighted Kenya's achievements alongside six other African countries - Botswana, Eswatini, Malawi, Rwanda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. These nations have reached or exceeded the 95-95-95 testing and treatment targets for their general populations, setting a powerful example for other countries worldwide.
Byanyima further emphasized the significance of Kenya's progress: "Kenya is among the countries in Sub Saharan Africa that have achieved viral suppression of over 86 per cent target, proving that ending AIDS is achievable."
This achievement is particularly noteworthy given the challenges faced by many countries in Sub-Saharan Africa in combating HIV/AIDS. Kenya's success story offers hope and valuable lessons for other nations striving to meet their HIV treatment and prevention goals.
The recognition at the International AIDS Conference 2024 serves as a motivation for Kenya to continue its efforts and potentially achieve even higher targets in the future. It also underscores the importance of sustained commitment, innovative strategies and putting people at the center of HIV/AIDS interventions.
As the global community continues to work towards ending the AIDS epidemic, Kenya's achievements stand as a powerful reminder that with concerted efforts, political will and community engagement, significant progress is possible. The country's success not only benefits its citizens but also contributes to the broader global goal of creating an AIDS-free world.
Source: The Standard News
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Published: July 29, 2024
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