The National Syndemic Diseases Control Council (NSDCC) has raised concern over rising HIV infections among young people, with new data showing that individuals aged 15 to 34 account for the majority of new cases.
Speaking during the inaugural cultural week at Tom Mboya University, NSDCC Regional Coordinator Steven Oyugi revealed that 58 per cent of all new HIV infections in Kenya in 2025 were recorded within this age group.
Oyugi noted that efforts to curb new infections are yet to achieve desired results, citing data indicating that more than 19,000 Kenyans were newly infected with HIV in 2025.
“At the same time, around 21,000 people lost their lives due to HIV-related complications last year,” he said.
Oyugi added that approximately 104,000 people in Homa Bay County are currently living with HIV.
The cultural festival that brought together students, health officials, and community stakeholders was organised collaboratively by the NSDCC and Tom Mboya University, marking the institution’s first-ever cultural festival.
Oyugi emphasised the importance of cultural platforms in addressing public health challenges, noting that culture can be a powerful tool for influencing behaviour change among young people.
“When you talk about response to syndemic diseases, particularly HIV and AIDS, behaviour plays a key role. Achieving the right behavioural change is critical in containing HIV as a public health challenge,” he stressed.
The coordinator pointed out that the majority of students at the university fall within the 15–34 age bracket, making them a critical target group in the fight against HIV.
He further noted that deliberate efforts to target young people are essential in reducing infection rates and improving awareness.
Condom advocate San Ringara underscored the need to intensify HIV sensitisation among youth. He observed that many young people lack critical information needed to protect themselves from infection.
Ringara called for sustained awareness campaigns and encouraged young people to embrace safe practices while also maintaining cultural values that support responsible behaviour.
By Sitna Omar
