Kenya Strengthens HIV Response Amid Global Funding Shifts

𝗡𝗮𝗶𝗿𝗼𝗯𝗶, 𝗞𝗲𝗻𝘆𝗮 – 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗰𝗵 𝟭𝟮, 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟱

The Ministry of Health  reaffirms its commitment to sustaining Kenya’s HIV response despite disruptions caused by U.S. Executive Order 14169, which pauses foreign development assistance for 90 days.

Speaking at a High-Level Consultative Meeting in Nairobi, Health CS Dr. Deborah Mulongo Barasa emphasized the need for localized solutions to safeguard progress, noting that ART coverage has risen from 41% in 2013 to 97% in 2023.

While acknowledging the role of international partnerships, Dr. Barasa stressed the urgency of transitioning to a self-sustaining health system. She assured stakeholders that the Ministry is actively engaging the U.S. Government, bilateral donors, and Cabinet leadership to mitigate potential disruptions to ART, HIV prevention, and diagnostics.

Kenya’s Health Sector Transition Roadmap, in place since 2021, aims to reduce donor dependency by strengthening governance, service delivery, health financing, local manufacturing, and community engagement. KEMSA remains key in ensuring stable medical supplies, maintaining a six-month buffer stock.

Dr. Barasa urged counties to increase HIV program funding through the Facilities Improvement Fund (FIF) and called on Parliament to prioritize health sector budgetary allocations. “The time to act is now. Strengthening domestic health financing will ensure long-term resilience,” she stated.

She reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to continuity of services and multi-sectoral collaboration, emphasizing that Kenya’s health systems are stronger than ever. “Kenya’s HIV response remains strong and resilient. We urge calm, unity, and collective action to ensure no one is left behind.”