Kenya surpasses global HIV targets as deaths, infections decline
This achievement is underpinned by widespread testing, expanded antiretroviral treatment, and comprehensive prevention efforts.
Kenya has achieved a major milestone in its fight against HIV, surpassing the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV and AIDS (UNAIDS) 98-98-94 targets by the end of 2024.
Over 98 per cent of people living with HIV now know their status, 98 per cent of them are receiving treatment, and 94 per cent have achieved viral suppression, according to the Ministry of Health.
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“Kenya has made remarkable progress in the fight against HIV/AIDS. Ninety-eight per cent of people living with HIV are aware of their status and are receiving treatment, and 94 per cent have achieved viral suppression,” said Dr Patrick Amoth, the Director General of Health.
This achievement is underpinned by widespread testing, expanded antiretroviral treatment, and comprehensive prevention efforts.
Testing coverage has grown steadily, with awareness of HIV status rising from 87 per cent in 2015 to 97 per cent in 2024.
Meanwhile, ARV treatment access has more than doubled over the past decade, increasing from 37 per cent in 2010 to 81 per cent in 2024, giving millions of Kenyans the chance to live longer, healthier lives.
The progress is reflected in a sharp decline in HIV/AIDS-related deaths and new infections.
According to the Global Fund, deaths linked to HIV/AIDS have dropped by 64 per cent, from 58,000 in 2010 to 21,000 in 2024. New HIV infections have fallen nearly 80 per cent over the same period, with the incidence rate per 1,000 people falling from 1.8 to 0.4.
Experts credit the gains to a combination of targeted prevention programmes, including voluntary male circumcision, pre-exposure prophylaxis, condom distribution, and behaviour change campaigns.
The Global Fund, which has invested $1.1 billion (Sh142.2 billion) in Kenya’s HIV response since 2002, has played a key role in supporting treatment, diagnostics, and community health systems.
Health officials say the continued decline in infections and deaths will reduce the pressure on Kenya’s healthcare system and bring the country closer to full epidemic control.
The achievements mark a decade of sustained investment, coordinated interventions, and community engagement in the fight against HIV.
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