Almost half new HIV infections is among adolescents and young people.
A new study conducted by the National Aids Control Council shows that the prevalence rate has increased from 29% in 2014 to 46% in 2016.
Executive director Nduku Kilonzo said that the numbers are unacceptably high and this is a serious challenge that needs multi-sectoral approach to address it.
“Our latest data which will be released in a month's time shows that almost one in every two new infections is in that age group, that is almost 46%. We shall validate this but all the data seems to suggest that it is actually an accurate figure.” Kilonzo said.
She was speaking in a meeting with other Civil Society Organizations on the progress made in the fight against HIV at a Nairobi hotel.
About 101,560 new HIV infections are recorded annually in the country. Statistics from the Aids Control Council shows that 12,940 are in children, 50, 530 among women and 38,090 in men.
“We are going to release the latest figures in a month’s time. The data will be divided in different age groups which will give a clear picture among adolescents and young people.” Kilonzo added.
Kenya has 435, 224 adolescents living with HIV.
Nairobi County has the highest number of adolescents at 49,904, followed by Homa Bay with 46,530.
Kisumu County has 37,110 and Siaya 33,810.
More than 9700 adolescents died of AIDS in 2014 alone. This is attributed to lack of treatment as a result is stigma and discrimination.
Nduku also noted that 51% of adolescents and young people do not know their HIV status.
“People fear knowing their HIV status because of the information being given to them; some of which isn’t true. This is turn makes them (adolescents and young people) shy away from VCT centers.”
“Even those who know their status, disclosing it is a problem. This is because they fear the reaction they will get from their friends family and decide to keep it a secret. “Nduku Added.
Non -governmental organisations who were present during the meeting called on the government to come up with better ways of disseminating HIV information to the public so as to reduce new HIV infections among all age groups.
Nduku added that there is need to train teachers as well and review the curriculum so that right information on HIV will be shared to children and the public as well.
" The education sector needs to be on board as well so that we can all work towards one goal."