NAIROBI, Kenya – Kenyans living with HIV/AIDS have been reassured that there is no imminent shortage of antiretroviral (ARV) drugs, with authorities emphasizing that the country has sufficient stock to meet demand.
In a statement, the Division of National AIDS and STI Control Program (NASCOP) confirmed that ARVs for both prevention and treatment are available at Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) sites across the country.
“ARVs should, therefore, be taken daily without skipping doses or sharing. Recipients of care are also advised not to refill ARVs before their due dates for fear of running out,” the statement read.
The public was also provided a helpline number, 0726460000, for additional clarification or support.
The announcement comes amid concerns over the impact of a 90-day freeze of USAID funding for HIV treatment, a decision originally made during President Donald Trump’s tenure.
The suspension could cost Kenya over KSh 25 billion annually, raising fears about the availability of life-saving drugs.
For nearly two decades, the United States has supported Kenya’s HIV/AIDS programs through the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), contributing over $8 billion and supplying approximately 40% of the country’s HIV drugs and commodities.
Health Cabinet Secretary Deborah Barasa and Director-General for Health Patrick Amoth have both sought to alleviate public fears.
CS Barasa confirmed that Dolutegravir, a critical drug for treating HIV and tuberculosis coinfections, and Nevirapine, used to prevent mother-to-child transmission, have sufficient stock to last five and eight months respectively.
Dr. Amoth further assured that the government has strengthened its supply chain to ensure consistent availability of ARVs and other HIV-related commodities.
“I want to assure Kenyans that we have sufficient stock of HIV commodities, including ARVs and testing supplies,” Amoth stated.
With an estimated 1.3 million people living with HIV, Kenya ranks seventh globally in terms of HIV prevalence, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).
The government continues to prioritize efforts to ensure uninterrupted treatment for those affected.
Patients are urged to follow their treatment schedules diligently and avoid panic, as the government collaborates with partners to maintain a steady supply of essential drugs.
