Jeffrey Okoro, Chief Executive Officer of CFK Africa, an international nonprofit organization that supports young people in disadvantaged neighborhoods in Africa through integrated health and leadership initiatives, says that nationwide, Kenya has seen a surge in new HIV infections. And while the newest HIV prevention and treatment drug, lenacapavir, which will be available in low-income countries, could have a transformative impact, the cost of injections remains high for some populations, including those in Kenya.
Kenya’s inclusion among the first nine countries selected for lenacapavir distribution by January 2026 is an encouraging step forward. But can you give us a snapshot of the situation?
The current situation in Kenya is an HIV infection rate of 3.3%, and a total population of 1.3 million people living with the virus. The high infection rate is particularly prevalent among young people. Girls are disproportionately affected. This is especially true in low-income communities, like Kibera and similar communities where we work. Following the current funding cuts, the HIV infection rate has skyrocketed, and this has impacted prevention. So, as a country, obviously, the possibility for us to potentially have access to this drug, available to people living in areas of extreme poverty and unable to afford it, will be a game-changer.
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