WORLD AIDS DAY COMMEMORATED AT MAKUTANO, WEST POKOT.

CECM for health Hon. Clare Parklea joined partners to commemorate World Aids Day 2022 under the theme, "EQUALIZE" at Chelanga garden, Makutano. This is an event that is marked annually on 1st December.

Different organizations, civil groups and general public gathered to observe this day with a clarion call of ending the Triple Threat of new HIV infections, Adolescent pregnancies and Sexual and Gender-Based Violence.

While delivering her speech, CEC Clare Parklea appreciated all the partners for their relentless support in fighting against HIV and AIDS in West Pokot County. She noted that West Pokot County has made significant progress in controlling spread of HIV.

"This saw the county classified as being in a forward gear with regard to new infections. HIV prevalence has dropped to 1 % from 1.6% in 2020." She said.

Further, Hon. Parklea stated that County government has prioritized increasing resources and access to universal health care for those living with HIV and ultimately subsidize county's future liability for HIV and AIDS prevention.

Ampath director Samson Ndege advised HIV patients to follow medical prescription to ease fight against this disease. Consequently, he urged all stakeholders to join hands owing to the fact that this has continued to be a major public health issue.

The CECM was joined by Chief Officer for health Mrs. Nelly Soprin, County health staff and members from Non- governmental agencies.