Nairobi is the new HIV den as Kenya records increased AIDS related deaths

Nairobi County has overtaken the Nyanza region as the region with the highest HIV-AIDS related infections, data from the National Syndemic Disease Control Council (NSDCC) shows.

The report also showed deaths related from HIV-AIDS have skyrocketed significantly with majority of women leading in new infections at 4 per cent compared to men at 2 per cent nationally.

Curiously, the data further reveals that infections remain highest among youth aged 15 to 34, who form the bulk of new cases.

According to the report, in the last year, new HIV infections have risen by 19 per cent, up from 16,752 to 19,991.

Ten counties among them Nairobi, Migori, Kisumu, Homa Bay, Busia, Siaya, Kakamega, Nakuru, Mombasa, and Bungoma accounted for 60 per cent of all new HIV infections in 2024.

Nairobi County led with 3,045 new infections, followed by Migori (1,572) and Kisumu (1,341).

The NSDCC noted that the concentration of new infections in the 10 counties shows persistent regional disparities, calling for differentiated county-led interventions to achieve equitable epidemic control.

“In 2024, the national HIV prevalence stood at 3.0 per cent, with higher rates among females (4.0 per cent) compared to males at 2 per cent,” details the Kenya HIV Estimates report released by NSDCC today shows.

Further, the survey shows that HIV related deaths increased by 0.05 in 2024, as 21,007 deaths were recorded.

This was a rise from 18,473 in 2023.

“AIDS-related deaths, recorded at 21,007 in 2024, remind us of the need for renewed focus on early diagnosis, treatment adherence, and retention in care,” said Health PS Ouma Oluga.

NSDCC data also shows that in 2025, Kenya recorded a 52 per cent decrease in new HIV infections.

As of 2024, 1,326,336 Kenyans were living with HIV, among them 62,798 children.

On the other hand, Elgeyo-Marakwet, Wajir, Mandera, Kisii, Machakos, Kericho, Uasin Gishu, Nakuru, Bomet, Baringo, Trans-Nzoia and Laikipia recorded a 75 per cent drop in new infections.

Separately, speaking on behalf of President William Ruto at the 2025 World AIDS Day Commemoration held at Nyayo Stadium, Prime Cabinet Secretary and CS for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs Musalia Mudavadi highlighted the immense challenge the nation faces while acknowledging significant strides in its response.

With 1,326,336 people living with HIV in Kenya, the financial requirement to sustain prevention, care, and long-term management efforts is considerable.

Mudavadi noted that the nation requires Sh30billion to secure vital commodities necessary for this ongoing public health initiative.

“These numbers remind [the nation] that this fight is not just medical, but a national duty to protect our people and secure the wellbeing of future generations,” the Cabinet Secretary stated, reflecting on how the epidemic has shaped Kenya’s history over the past four decades, testing its resilience.

CS Mudavadi emphasised President Ruto’s message that HIV and AIDS persist as major global health concerns, particularly for countries like Kenya.

However, he underscored the notable progress made by the country: 87 per cent of people living with HIV were on Anti-Retroviral Treatment (ART).

Coverage for the Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission (PMTCT) reached 90.1 per cent, contributing to healthier lives and the birth of HIV-free newborns.

The Prime Cabinet Secretary reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring every Kenyan has access to comprehensive prevention, care, and treatment services.

He pledged continued collaboration with local and international partners to guarantee that life-saving medication reaches all who need it.

Mudavadi concluded with a call for national unity and determination in the ongoing efforts toward achieving an HIV-free Kenya.