HIV/AIDS continues to be a significant public health issue in Kenya, where approximately 1.4 million people are living with HIV, according to the Kenya National AIDS Control Council (NACC) 2023. Women are disproportionately affected, with 66% of all new infections in 2023 occurring among women and adolescent girls. Gender-based violence (GBV), particularly intimate partner violence, exacerbates the epidemic by limiting women’s ability to negotiate safe practices or access treatment. The stigmatization of HIV-positive individuals, especially in rural areas, compounds the issue, discouraging many from seeking the healthcare and support they need.

In Kenya, adolescent girls and young women are especially vulnerable due to intersecting factors such as poverty, lack of education, and gender inequality. Programs like DREAMS (Determined, Resilient, Empowered, AIDS-free, Mentored, and Safe) have been successful in reducing new infections by providing education, economic opportunities, and access to sexual health services. However, barriers persist, including limited availability of youth-friendly health services and fear of stigma within healthcare settings.

Ending the HIV/AIDS epidemic in Kenya requires integrating HIV prevention with GBV support services, expanding access to antiretroviral therapy (ART), and promoting comprehensive sexual health education. Community-led initiatives, such as peer mentorship programs, have proven effective in reaching marginalized groups. Addressing stigma is equally crucial—campaigns that normalize testing and treatment, combined with survivor-centered care, can break cycles of silence and shame. By empowering women and girls and investing in inclusive healthcare systems, Kenya can make significant progress toward eliminating HIV/AIDS.