Kenya has launched a comprehensive Commitment Plan in Bungoma aimed at eradicating the ‘Triple Threat’ of new HIV infections, gender based violence (GBV), and teenage pregnancy by 2027.
Health Cabinet Secretary Nakhumicha S. Wafula announced the government’s determination to equip personnel with the necessary skills to combat these challenges effectively.
Utilizing technology, they plan to collaborate with other stakeholders to record perpetrators of sexual violence. The National Syndemic Disease Control Council (NSDCC) emphasized the urgency of addressing the ‘Triple Threat,’ noting its impact on ending the HIV pandemic.
NSDCC identified gender based violence and teenage pregnancy as indicators of heightened HIV infection risks.
In 2023, 254,753 pregnancies were reported among adolescents aged 10 to 19 years, with 12,966 among 10 to 14-year-olds and 241,757 among 15 to 19-year-olds.
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Health records data also showed 17% of antenatal clinic clients in 2023 were adolescents.
Health CS Susan Nakumicha emphasized the plan’s importance in empowering adolescents and young people while safeguarding them from health vulnerabilities.
The NSDCC CEO Ruth Laibon-Masha presented data at the Kemri Annual Scientific and Health Conference, indicating a slight decrease in adolescent pregnancies from 2020 to 2023.
It highlighted that 15% of attendees at Antenatal Care clinics in 15 counties were adolescents, with 18% reporting cases of GBV against children and adolescents.
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Kenya’s commitments under the ICPD25 aim to enhance the health standards of adolescents and youth by addressing the ‘Triple Threat’ comprehensively.
Ending the triple threat
Through collective action, Kenya aims to create a healthier, safer, and more empowered future for all.
The plan includes efforts to tackle sexual violence and child motherhood, which have long-lasting psychological and physical consequences, affecting both the health and economic outcomes of the nation.
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