Liverpool voluntary counseling and testing (LVCT) Health has signed a MoU with Kiambu County towards improving HIV healthcare and the well-being of the communities in the region.
The partnership aims to leverage LVCT Health expertise and resources to strengthen existing healthcare initiatives, ensuring comprehensive support for those affected by HIV.
This significant partnership marks a major step forward in the organisation’s mission to improve health care in African countries through strengthening policies and health systems already in place.
The agreement aims to strengthen the County government’s capacity building to manage and sustain HIV care and preventive services to accelerate progress towards sustainable epidemic control and the 95:95:95 targets.
In 2019, due to changing Epidemiology, the World Health Organisation (WHO) recommended that African countries adopt the three-test algorithm for HIV diagnosis, enhancing diagnostic precision, and LVCT health has since adopted the mantra after noting an increase in HIV infections in the country.
This means the targets are aiming for 95% of people who are living with HIV to know their HIV status, 95% of people who know that they are living with HIV to be on lifesaving antiretroviral treatment, and 95% of people who are on treatment to be virally suppressed.
Dr. Lilian Otiso, Executive Director at LVCT Health, acknowledged the challenges the remaining 5% pose but urged for creativity when tackling the pandemic.
“From the prevention bit, the testing bit, treatment, and ensuring people remain negative, the remaining 5% is very difficult, so we have to be innovative. What works best is what the community tells us. Our designs for prevention emanate from interactions with the community,” said Dr. Otiso.
She cited lack of awareness as a challenge in implementing the method, noting: “Lack of economic empowerment and lack of awareness are very clear. We have to educate the community to walk the journey for prevention and even treatment.”
The MoU signed means improved Healthcare Services and enhanced access to quality healthcare for 12 sub-counties in Kiambu County. It will also commemorate the setting up of Community Health Programmes that will collaborate on various initiatives aimed at promoting public health, including HIV prevention, TB, Care, and treatment services.
The partnership will also focus on training healthcare workers and empowering them with the necessary skills and knowledge to serve the community better.
“By joining forces, we aim to create sustainable health solutions that will benefit current and future generations. This MoU signifies a shared commitment to building a healthier, stronger Kiambu County. We are excited about the positive changes this collaboration will bring and look forward to making a lasting impact.” Dr. Otiso noted.
LVCT Health is supported by the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to implement the Dhibiti Project, a five-year transitional project to provide comprehensive and sustainable high-quality HIV prevention, care, and treatment services in six counties in the central region.
By Xavier Brian
