Kiambu County on Monday marked World AIDS Day in Lari with a vibrant commemoration that brought together county health officials, national government representatives and community members to amplify efforts aimed at protecting adolescents and young people from HIV.
The event, led by County Director of Health Dr Hillary Kagwa who delivered the keynote address, highlighted the county’s continued dedication to prevention, awareness and eliminating stigma as part of the global campaign to End AIDS.
The celebration comes at a time when Kiambu has been ranked number six countrywide in terms of HIV burden, a position that county leaders say underscores the need for sustained vigilance and strengthened health interventions targeting young people.
From health tents offering HIV counselling and testing, tuberculosis screening and nutrition guidance, to cervical and breast cancer examinations, the commemoration provided residents with comprehensive health services. A blood donation drive and displays by Community Health Promoters (CHPs) showcasing household-level empowerment activities further enriched the outreach.
Speaking at the event, Dr Kagwa said empowering young people with accurate information and safe spaces to discuss health issues is crucial in the fight against HIV.
“Our adolescents and youth deserve a future free from HIV. Prevention begins with honest conversations, education and access to the right health services,” he said.
He added that stigma continues to hinder progress and urged the community to support affected individuals with empathy and openness.
“Stigma drives fear and silence. When we stand together, we protect one another. No one should be judged or isolated because of their health status,” he noted.
Samuel Muthiani, a person living with HIV who has been on treatment for more than ten years, encouraged residents to embrace testing and early treatment, saying it restores hope and allows individuals to live fulfilling lives.
“When I learned my status, I was frightened, but treatment and support changed everything. I am living a full life because I chose to get help. I want young people to know that HIV is not the end what matters is knowing your status and following treatment,” Samuel said.
Local administrators, National Police Service representatives, Lari Sub-County health teams and HIV sector partners echoed the call for collaborative action, emphasizing the need for consistent community outreach to empower residents with knowledge on prevention and available health services.
Participants expressed optimism that the activities conducted during the commemoration would encourage more adolescents to seek information and testing. A youth representative said the involvement of young people in the celebrations demonstrated their readiness to take an active role in safeguarding their health.
“This event made us feel seen and included. When we are informed, we make better decisions about our health,” the representative said.
Community groups pledged to extend similar sensitisation efforts to schools, churches and village gatherings, noting that well-informed communities are better equipped to prevent new infections and support affected individuals.
The Department of Health Services said the event was not just a ceremony but a strong statement of Kiambu’s commitment to end AIDS in adolescents and young people, one empowered step at a time.
by Njoroge Gladys
