Kenya on Alert: Nairobi Records Highest HIV Spike as Youth and Women Face Rising Risk

Kenya is on high alert after new HIV data showed a sharp rise in infections. Nairobi recorded the highest spike. The National Syndemic Disease Control Council released the new report. It shows infections rising by 19 per cent in one year. The cases increased from 16,752 to 19,991. Health officials say the trend is worrying. They warn it threatens national progress.

Nairobi led with 3,045 new infections. Migori followed with 1,572. Kisumu recorded 1,341. Ten counties accounted for 60 per cent of all new cases. They are Nairobi, Migori, Kisumu, Homa Bay, Busia, Siaya, Kakamega, Nakuru, Mombasa and Bungoma. Officials say these counties show deep regional gaps. They want stronger county-led action. They also urge better prevention efforts.

The national HIV prevalence now stands at 3.0 per cent. Women have a higher rate at 4.0 per cent. Men stand at 2.0 per cent. Young people aged 15 to 34 make up most new infections. Experts say risky behaviour, low testing and stigma fuel the rise. They warn that the numbers will climb if action is delayed.

HIV-related deaths also increased. Kenya recorded 21,007 deaths in 2024. This was up from 18,473 in 2023. Health PS Ouma Oluga said the rise is alarming. He called for early diagnosis. He urged strict treatment adherence. He insisted that stigma must end.

Despite the worrying spike, the report noted some gains. Kenya recorded a 52 per cent drop in new infections in 2025. Several counties also saw major declines. Elgeyo-Marakwet, Wajir, Mandera, Kisii, Machakos, Kericho, Uasin Gishu, Nakuru, Bomet, Baringo, Trans-Nzoia and Laikipia reported a 75 per cent drop. Officials say these successes prove that strong planning works. They warn that any slowdown could erase the progress.

Health experts now call for urgent action. They want targeted campaigns. They want better youth programs. They want stronger community support. They say Kenya can reverse the spike. But they insist the response must be fast and consistent.