Nairobi: Kenya has achieved a remarkable 83% reduction in new HIV infections over the past decade, according to Ministry of Health Cabinet Secretary Deborah Barasa. During the official launch of the World AIDS Day 2024 Half Marathon in Nairobi, CS Barasa highlighted that new HIV cases have decreased from 101,560 in 2013 to 16,752 in 2023. Concurrently, the number of people receiving antiretroviral therapy has almost doubled, reaching 1,336,681.
According to Nam News Network, AIDS-related deaths have also seen a significant decline, with a 65% reduction over the same period. Despite this progress, challenges persist, especially concerning children, adolescents, and young men who are at a heightened risk due to the intersecting issues of HIV, early pregnancies, and gender-based violence.
The upcoming marathon aims to spotlight the health and well-being of men and boys living with HIV. It seeks to promote early diagnosis and treatment, which is crucial for reducing AIDS-related deaths among this group, currently comprising approximately 487,710 individuals.
The event is designed to raise awareness and foster community unity in the fight against HIV/AIDS, aligning with the global goal to end AIDS by 2030. World AIDS Day is observed each year on December 1st.
