Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii has expressed concern over the rising cases of HIV and AIDS infections in the county, warning that increased nightclubbing and rising immorality have placed the region among the counties with the highest rates of new infections.
Speaking on Friday at the University of Eldoret during the 18th Agribusiness Trade Fair, which brought together farmers, researchers, government officials and industry players to showcase innovations for food security, Bii cautioned students against engaging in risky behaviour, particularly under peer and external pressures.
“I consider myself a father to you, and I will not allow you to be misled into destructive habits,” Bii said, urging learners to safeguard their lives and focus on their future.
He emphasised that parents have invested heavily in their children and must also take responsibility in guiding and advising them.
The Governor stressed that young people are the nation’s hope and should protect their lives to secure not only their own future but also that of their families and the country.
According to the 2024 Kenya HIV Modes of Transmission Study Report by the National Syndemic Diseases Control Council (NSDCC), Uasin Gishu was ranked seventh among counties with the highest number of new HIV infections, recording 556 cases per year.
By Fredrick Maritim
