Some 421 women living with HIV in Kwale, who gave birth to HIV negative babies, have been urged to exercise caution and follow doctor's advice so they don't infect their children.
USAID Stawisha Pwani director Patrick Oyaro said despite having done all the hard work to protect their children since birth, more needs to be achieved to maintain a healthy life.
The women were told not to drop their guard and continue to take medication even though most of them have suppressed viral load.
Oyaro said breastfeeding babies are still at great risk of infection if the parents fail to adhere to the medication regime.
"Don't get too excited that your child tested negative. What is more important is for you to follow the doctor's advice," he said.
Oyaro said there is a great journey ahead until the children are declared completely safe.
He made the remarks during the graduation of the HIV-positive mothers as their children mark two years at Kwale Cultural Centre in Matuga.
He said the mothers should keep up with the hard work and ensure the children are not exposed to the disease.
Oyaro admitted that it is hectic to take the medication daily but it is the only way the mothers can suppress the virus and protect their families.
"I commend you for your consistency in taking medicine because it is not easy but let's not relax," he said.
The director promised the women that they won't walk alone and that Stawisha Pwani will partner with the county government to ensure all the required medication and assistance is provided on time.
Deputy Governor Chirema Kombo called for concerted efforts to reduce the spread of the virus in the county.
He said the programme should also capture infected male spouses who play a key role in society.
Kombo said the women might be doing their best but their partners could be busy engaging in multiple affairs and spreading the virus knowingly.
He said the move is to ensure all Kwale residents are healthy and live in a safe environment and curb the virus spread.
"We are planning to reduce the HIV transmission cases to zero by 2027," Kombo said.
He said the county will not alienate those already infected and they will be treated equally without stigma and victimisation.
Kombo stressed that HIV-positive people should consider their colleagues and family members at home by taking the right medication for a happy and prosperous life.
He directed various county departments to treat HIV-positive people as special groups and prioritise them in development programmes.
Kombo said the mothers will be given county bursaries and education sponsorships for their children.
He also urged the women to register companies to enable the county to award them tenders and improve their lives.
Kombo said being HIV positive does not mean the women are incapable, adding that most of them have skills that will help provide for their families.
