Health Cabinet Secretary Susan Nakhumicha has revealed that over the last six months, the National AIDS Control Council has distributed a staggering 3,157,900 condoms outside of health facilities.
Additionally, the National AIDS and STI Control Programme (NASCOP) provided Ant-Retroviral Treatment to 1,207,482 clients.
These efforts are part of a broader strategy to combat the spread of HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted infections.
In a recent report to the Departmental Committee on Health regarding the State Department for Medical Services Budget Estimates for the Financial Year 2024-25, Nakhumicha highlighted significant strides in family planning services.
The CS further noted that 38.8% of women of reproductive age received family planning commodities through the Department of Family Health.
Addressing concerns about condom shortages, Nakhumicha clarified that the country currently holds a substantial stock of 38 million condoms. She attributed reported shortages in certain regions to distribution challenges from the Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (Kemsa).
Despite these challenges, Nakhumicha emphasized that the government prioritizes ensuring commodity security for family health and various strategic health programs, including those targeting TB, malaria, family planning, HIV/AIDS, and nutrition.
Furthermore, Nakhumicha stressed the vital link between public health and economic prosperity. Healthy citizens, she noted, contribute to economic growth by actively participating in the workforce.
