KELIN, with support from Aidsfonds, and in collaboration with local policymakers, community representatives, civil society organizations (CSOs) and representatives from the Ministry of Health (MOH) concluded a series of consultative dialogues in Homabay, Migori and Busia. These dialogues held at county level focused on discussing HIV prevention choices and the implementation challenges for the regions.
During these sessions, KELIN took the opportunity to disseminate the findings from a recent study on HIV prevention tools. The study addresses the accessibility, availability and affordability of HIV prevention tools as well as highlights key issues surrounding Intellectual Property (IP) barriers that hinder the effective implementation of newly developed tools.
County AIDS and STI Coordinators (CASCOs) from the three counties provided an in-depth analysis of the current HIV treatment and prevention landscape. Their analysis focused on the number of people enrolled for ART treatment meeting the 95-95-95 cascade, as well the uptake of Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PREP), which remains low. They shared valuable insights into ongoing efforts such as satellite HIV testing clinics, prevention of mother to child transmission. However, challenges persist including stigma at health facilities and within homes, and erratic supply of some second line ARTs and condoms at the county level. These challenges emphasize the need for continued innovation and support to enhance the uptake of prevention tools.
KELIN, recognizing the importance of sustained advocacy, committed to ongoing conversations with county stakeholders to develop and implement more effective advocacy strategies. These strategies aim to improve the uptake of HIV prevention tools, ensuring that communities have better access to the resources they need to combat HIV.
KELIN underscored the importance of including communities in discussions about intellectual property (IP) barriers that hinder access to HIV treatment and prevention tools, highlighting the novel Lenacapavir injection, a biannual shot that has demonstrated high efficacy in both HIV prevention and treatment. Participants were informed of the significant potential this tool holds in the fight against HIV, particularly in regions with high infection rates. However, its accessibility remains limited in many low- and middle-income countries due to IP barriers. KELIN reaffirmed its commitment to engaging all stakeholders and policymakers to ensure the expedited approval of other critical prevention tools like the Dapivirine ring and CAB-LA (Cabotegravir Long-Acting injection).
For more information, please contact:
Advocacy Officer-HIV/TB
Kenya Legal and Ethical Issues Network on HIV & AIDS (KELIN)
Kuwinda Lane, Karen C, off Langáta Road
