Kwale – Kwale Governor Fatuma Achani has called for an end to the stigmatization and discrimination of individuals living with or affected by HIV and AIDS. She emphasized the importance of tackling HIV/AIDS-related stigma and discrimination as a crucial step in controlling the virus’s spread in communities.
According to Kenya News Agency, stigma and discrimination hinder people’s access to vital health information, services for HIV prevention, and appropriate treatment and care for those who are HIV-positive. She pointed out that these fears discourage individuals from seeking information, counseling, testing, disclosing their status, or accessing HIV/AIDS-related services. Achani also highlighted that such stigma and discrimination are human rights violations that undermine public health efforts to address the HIV epidemic.
Encouragingly, the governor noted a significant reduction in mother-to-child transmission of HIV, from 22 percent in 2016 to 9.6 percent in 2023. This year, out of 427 babies born to HIV-positive mothers in hospitals, only six infants contracted the virus, thanks to advancements in antiretroviral drugs and research breakthroughs.
UNAIDS has identified HIV stigma, discrimination, inequity, and human rights abuses as major obstacles to scaling up HIV/AIDS services and achieving universal access to comprehensive prevention, treatment, care, and support. Governor Achani stressed the need for increased public awareness about HIV/AIDS to prevent its spread, as HIV is transmitted through infected bodily fluids.
She clarified that HIV is not spread through casual contact like shaking hands, hugging, or mosquito bites. The Governor also pointed out common HIV and AIDS symptoms, similar to flu-like illnesses, that appear days to weeks after exposure to the virus.
Governor Achani stated that the HIV infection rate in Kwale County has been declining, attributing this to increased awareness and responsibility among residents. She encouraged those unaware of their HIV status to visit health facilities for testing.
During the World AIDS Day commemoration at Kwale Baraza Park, with Deputy Governor Chirema Kombo and County Commissioner Meru Mwangi in attendance, Achani reiterated the county’s commitment to HIV prevention and treatment services. World AIDS Day, observed annually on December 1st since 1988, raises awareness about AIDS and honors those who have died from the disease.
The Governor affirmed that her administration has established HIV testing centers in all health centers across the county’s 20 administrative wards, aiming to increase testing capacity and ensure access to antiretroviral therapy for those who test positive. She emphasized that knowing one’s status is a crucial first step in curbing the virus’s spread.
In closing, Governor Achani mentioned that the devolved government is ensuring the availability of antiretroviral drugs in all health facilities, aiding in the management of HIV among infected individuals.