Lodwar, November 30, 2024 (Public Communications and Media Relations)
Turkana County, in collaboration with the National Syndemic Disease Control Council, held its first half-marathon to raise awareness about the rising cases of new HIV infections among youth aged 15-24, particularly among men.
This year’s theme, “It’s a Race Against Time – Promoting the Health and Well-being of Men and Boys,” emphasizes the importance of involving men in the fight against HIV/AIDS and the goal of ending AIDS by 2030.
Turkana County’s First Lady, Lillian Ekamais, emphasized the importance of HIV testing. “Know your status. If you test positive, take your medication for your health,” she said. She also called for the integration of comprehensive care clinics into general hospital services to reduce stigma.
The county’s Women Representative, Cecilia Ngitit, urged the community to focus on education about HIV and to fight drug abuse, noting that substance abuse often leads to risky behavior.
Chief Officer for Preventive and Promotive Health, Janerose Tioko, highlighted the inequality in testing rates between genders, with more women being tested than men. “To end AIDS by 2030, everyone—both men and women—must get tested,” she stated.
Member of the County Assembly for Lodwar Township, Ruth Kuya, stressed the importance of regular testing and adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) to manage HIV effectively.
Isaac Kalale, the winner of the 10km marathon and a professional athlete, encouraged young people to engage in sports. “Staying active keeps you away from destructive habits like alcoholism and promiscuity that can ruin lives,” he said.
Earlier this year, Kenya unveiled a plan to address the ‘Triple Threat’ of new HIV infections, gender-based violence, and teenage pregnancy, aiming to eliminate these challenges by 2027.
The event was supported by National Syndemic Disease Control Council, Apes Ere, Diocese of Lodwar, Echuman Rehab, Asegis Community Network, USAID Imarisha Jamii, Turkana Development Trust, Turkana University College, Kenya Red Cross and Kenya Medical Training College.
