Elgeyo marakwet: Elgeyo Marakwet is facing a significant challenge in managing new HIV infections, teenage pregnancies, and Gender-Based Violence (GBV), with recent statistics highlighting a concerning trend among the youth and minors.
According to Kenya News Agency, the county recorded 3,075 adolescent pregnancies this year, with 47% of these pregnancies occurring among girls aged 10-14 years. Elgeyo Marakwet Governor Wisley Rotich noted that adolescents constituted 14% of all antenatal clinic attendance and 11% of all GBV cases in the county. In a speech delivered by CEC health Monica Rotich during World Aids Day celebrations in Iten, the governor expressed concern over the 123 new HIV infections recorded in the county, attributing 15% of these cases to young people aged 15-24 years.
The governor reported that 33 new HIV infections were recorded among children aged 0-14 years. Currently, 6,335 people are living with HIV in the county, which has a prevalence rate of 1.9%. While this is below the national p
revalence rate of 3.3%, Governor Rotich cautioned that the actual prevalence might be higher due to unreported cases and individuals seeking treatment outside the county due to stigma.
However, Governor Rotich highlighted progress in treatment and care, stating that 95% of people living with HIV are aware of their status, and 82% of those diagnosed are undergoing treatment. Additionally, 97% of those on treatment have achieved viral suppression, significantly reducing the risk of transmission.
The governor emphasized the importance of addressing social drivers that increase the risk for youth and children, advocating for strengthened prevention measures, comprehensive sexuality education, expanded youth-friendly services, and immediate care and justice for GBV survivors. He urged the community, including parents, teachers, and faith leaders, to play a proactive role.
Governor Rotich also noted the declining donor support for HIV programs and stressed the need for government intervention to ensure resource
availability and drug supply in health facilities. The county has adopted an integrated healthcare system to treat people living with HIV alongside other patients, aiming to reduce stigma.
In collaboration with Ampath, the county is establishing an integration center in Kapcherop to merge HIV services with routine medical care. The county also observed 16 days of activism against GBV, focusing on ending digital violence against women and girls. County Gender Director Joseph Amuke encouraged reporting cyberbullying incidents to security personnel.
