Editor's Review

"Your health and safety are our top priorities."

The government has disclosed that it is committed to support HIV/AIDS patients after United States President Donald Trump suspended the supply of HIV drugs in countries supported by United States Agency for International Development (USAID).

In a statement on Wednesday, January 29, government spokesperson Isaac Mwaura noted that the government was actively mobilizing local resources and seeking new partnerships to ensure the treatment of the patients is not interrupted.

"In light of the recent halt in funding and support for HIV patients by the Trump administration, the government assures all affected individuals that we are committed to your well-being. The government is actively mobilizing local resources, seeking new partnerships and donors to ensure that your treatment and care continue uninterrupted.

"Your health and safety are our top priorities, and we will leave no stone unturned in our efforts to provide the necessary support during this challenging time," Mwaura remarked.

At the same time, the Ministry of Health maintained that it was committed to sustaining HIV/AIDS treatment and prevention programs.

File image of Director General for Health Dr. Patrick Amoth in a press briefing.

"The Ministry of Health has reaffirms its commitment to sustaining HIV/AIDS treatment and prevention programs, following the U.S. withdrawal from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the freezing of global health aid, including PEPFAR funding," read part of the Ministry's statement.

According to the Director General for Health Dr. Patrick Amoth, Kenya and the United States have had a longstanding partnership which has played a critical role in strengthening HIV programs and disease prevention.

Amoth disclosed that the Ministry was engaging with other development partners and investing in local pharmaceutical manufacturing to prevent treatment disruptions.

“Kenya has made remarkable progress in the fight against HIV/AIDS, with 98% of people living with HIV aware of their status and on treatment, and 94% achieving viral suppression. The Ministry is actively engaging with other development partners and investing in local pharmaceutical manufacturing to prevent treatment disruptions,” Dr. Amoth remarked.