Introduction
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) attacks the body’s immune system, specifically the CD4 cells (T cells) critical for fighting infections. Without treatment, HIV reduces the number of these cells, making the body vulnerable to opportunistic infections. If left untreated, HIV leads to Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS), the final and most severe stage of the disease.
Since its discovery in the early 1980s, HIV has evolved from a poorly understood condition to one of the most researched diseases, with significant advances in management and prevention. Despite this progress, HIV remains a global concern, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, where the majority of new infections occur.
According to the National Syndemic Diseases Control Council (NSDCC), a state corporation established under Section 3 of the State Corporations Act, Cap 446, through the National AIDS Control Council Order of 1999, there are 1,378,457 individuals living with HIV in Kenya and 16,752 new infections as of 2024.
Although health is a devolved function in Kenya, both the National and County Governments, in partnership with various local and international organizations, collaborate to implement new initiatives and campaigns aimed at eradicating the spread of HIV. These efforts involve strengthening prevention strategies, expanding access to treatment, promoting awareness and addressing the stigma surrounding HIV, all aimed at reducing new infections and improving the quality of life for people living with the virus.
Elgeyo-Marakwet, situated in the former Rift Valley region has a population of 454,480 people comprising 227,317 females, 227,151 males and 12 intersex individuals. The County has 99,861 households, with an average household size of 4.5 persons and a population density of 150 people per square kilometer. The County has a population of 4,900 individuals living with HIV.
Iten County Referral Hospital handles a caseload of 1,200 HIV patients, providing monthly medical consultations that include viral load monitoring, management of new infections and medication refills. Kenya, like other parts of Africa faces several cross-cutting challenges in HIV prevention and treatment, including drug shortages, stigma, inadequate healthcare infrastructure, limited access to testing and counseling services and insufficient community awareness. Additionally, governance issues pose significant challenges, affecting coordination, resource allocation and the effective implementation of HIV-related programs. These obstacles collectively hinder efforts to provide timely care, reduce new infections and enhance the overall well-being of those living with HIV.
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