The government is looking for new donors to support Kenya’s HIV programme, days after the new US government temporarily paused funding and distribution of the HIV drugs it supports.
The US on Wednesday lifted those orders, offering temporary relief for its global HIV treatment programme.
Health director-general Patrick Amoth said Kenya is taking measures to mitigate the negative effects and ensure the continuity of healthcare services.
“The Ministry of Health is actively engaging with other development partners, international agencies, and private sector stakeholders to secure alternative resources and fill gaps in the supply of essential medicines,” he said.
“Kenya is also emphasising regional and global solidarity to support health financing, ensuring that critical healthcare services continue to reach those in need.”
On Wednesday, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio allowed the continued distribution of HIV medications in the 55 countries supported by the US President’s Emergency Plan for Aids Relief.
However, it remains unclear whether the waiver includes preventive drugs or other critical services.
The abrupt halt of Pepfar funding had sparked international concern, with global health organisations warning of severe consequences for millions of people dependent on American-funded HIV treatment.
In response to the growing pressure, Rubio later clarified in a memo that other “humanitarian assistance” beyond food—such as core lifesaving medicine, medical services, food, shelter and subsistence assistance—would also be exempt during the review period. Unaids welcomed the decision.
“Unaids welcomes this waiver
from US which ensures that millions of people living with HIV
can continue to receive life-saving HIV medication during the
assessment of US foreign development assistance,” said Unaids
executive director, Winnie Byanyima.
