Wajir county News;

1st Dec 2024;

Wajir County marked this year’s World AIDS Day with a strong commitment to combating HIV, particularly among the county’s youth. As the Chief Guest at the event, First Lady H.E. Rukia Abdinasir emphasized the theme “It’s a Race Against Time #EndAIDSby2030#EndTripleThreat“, spotlighting the urgency to curb rising HIV infections among adolescents and young men.

The county’s approach is aligned with global health targets to reduce new HIV infections by 75% and TB-related deaths by 50% among boys and young men by 2030. The First Lady acknowledged the compound challenges of unintended pregnancies and sexual and gender-based violence, which together drive the “Triple Threat” to adolescent health.

Wajir’s dedication to improving healthcare services is evident in ongoing projects, including the construction of a new accident and emergency unit and the operationalization of 57 newly opened or upgraded health facilities across the county, ensuring better access to essential services.

A highlight of the event was the graduation of 25 infants who completed 24 months of follow-up care and tested negative for HIV, marking a significant milestone for the county and Northern Kenya. With a 99% success rate, where only one out of 25 HIV-exposed infants tested positive, Wajir County exceeded national expectations, positioning itself as a model in the fight against HIV.

“This achievement challenges the recent PMTCT estimates of 33% in Wajir,” said First Lady Abdinasir. “With support from our health partners and the National Government, we are firmly on track to meet our goal of reducing HIV transmission rates to below 10%.”

Wajir County’s progress underscores its unwavering commitment to strengthening the primary healthcare system and working toward the elimination of HIV and syphilis transmission, offering hope for a healthier future for its people.

End.