Expression Africa, MSN – CFK Africa Underscores the Importance of Community Engagement in HIV Prevention and Treatment
November 19, 2025
“Fighting HIV requires more than just handing out medication,” added Okoro.
“Fighting HIV requires more than just handing out medication,” added Okoro.
The end of the HIV epidemic has never been closer, yet it still feels distant for many of the world’s most vulnerable. The announcement last month that the drug Lenacapavir would
Over the past five years, CFK Africa has tested over 22,000 patients for HIV and treated more than 3,500 at its clinics in Kibera.
“Following the current funding cuts, the HIV infection rate has skyrocketed, and this has impacted prevention.”
Okoro says targeting high-risk, low-income communities in the initial rollout will ensure those who have historically faced barriers to treatment are not left behind.
“In our local context, these shots are especially promising for healthcare workers at higher risk of HIV exposure, such as maternity staff who frequently come into contact with blood and bodily fluids.”
“Communities like Kibera, one of Nairobi’s largest informal settlements, are bearing the brunt of this crisis.”
To overcome barriers to care, CFK Africa established a Youth-Friendly Services Centre in Kibera, Africa’s largest slum, where young people can receive vital support and treatment.
The youth-focused NGO says the situation poses a serious threat to the health, education, and future of young people in the community.
“Jeffrey reminded us that localization is more than a development buzzword—it is the practice of shifting leadership, power, and decision-making to local actors. It means ensuring that