Kenya stands out as one of seven countries worldwide making significant strides in reducing new HIV infections, with a 78 percent decline since 2010. This progress places Kenya on course to meet the global target of a 90 percent reduction by 2030, according to a recent analysis by the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/Aids (UNAids).
The countries leading this effort include Benin, Eswatini, Lesotho, Nepal, Rwanda, Zimbabwe, and Kenya. The notable achievements are largely credited to sustained investments in HIV prevention, particularly in preventing mother-to-child transmission during pregnancy and childbirth, where Kenya has surpassed 90 percent coverage.
Expanded HIV testing and treatment initiatives have also played a vital role in driving down new infections over the past decade. The UNAids report highlights that seven countries, including Kenya, have reduced new infections by at least 78 percent since 2010, positioning them well towards the 2030 goal.
Despite a decline in international donor funding, Kenya has increased its domestic HIV budget, joining 55 nations that have stepped up public financing for HIV programmes. This shift aims to sustain the country's response as external aid from key donors like the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (Pepfar) and the Global Fund diminishes.
Kenya's commitment is reflected in its new HIV partnership with the United States, which includes a pledge of approximately $850 million (around Sh110 billion) in domestic funding over five years. This financial dedication underscores Kenya's determination to maintain momentum in the fight against HIV amid global funding challenges.
