Kenya is confronting a critical shortage of anti-retroviral (ARV) medications, with current stocks projected to last only six more months. This alarming development follows the recent suspension of funding by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) to the health sector, a move that has significantly disrupted HIV treatment programs nationwide.
The funding freeze has not only jeopardized the supply of life-saving ARVs but has also adversely affected over 41,000 health sector employees, predominantly healthcare workers, whose positions were previously supported by U.S. foreign aid.
County governments have expressed concerns about their inability to absorb these workers into their systems due to financial constraints.
During a recent multi-sectoral consultative meeting held at the Lake Naivasha Resort, stakeholders discussed the sustainability of HIV and related disease responses in light of the funding challenges. Khatra Ali, a board member of the National Syndemic Diseases Control Council (NSDCC) and representative of the Council of Governors (COG), emphasized the urgency of addressing the ARV stock deficit. She noted a growing trend of patients attempting to hoard medications in anticipation of shortages.
“The available supplies will last for approximately six months, and the queues at hospitals to access these drugs have become long, as people try to stock up,” Ali stated.
She also highlighted that the budget cuts have severely impacted health programs, including services for HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria.
Despite these concerns, NSDCC CEO Dr. Ruth Masha downplayed the severity of the situation, asserting that the country maintains ample ARV stockpiles and is collaborating with other development partners to mitigate the impact of the funding shortfall.
The suspension of U.S. aid has sparked criticism regarding Kenya’s reliance on foreign assistance for its health programs. Some local advocates argue that the government should have established more robust measures to ensure the sustainability of HIV treatment and prevention efforts.
“HIV didn’t just happen yesterday. It’s been almost 40 years. The government should have put measures in place,” said Isaac Rabari, a counselor in Kisumu.
As the situation unfolds, there is a pressing need for collaborative efforts between the national government, county administrations, and international partners to develop sustainable solutions.
Ensuring uninterrupted access to ARVs is crucial for the health and well-being of the 1.4 million Kenyans living with HIV.
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