Revised Strategy To Boost Kenya’s Fight Against Violent Extremism


The National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC) has embarked on the second round of public participation on the revised National Strategy to Counter Violent Extremism (NSCVE).

Last November, NCTC launched a comprehensive nationwide exercise to gather insights and feedback from a broad spectrum of stakeholders including community leaders, civil society organizations, security experts and the general public.

The exercise aimed to assess the effectiveness of the current strategy that has been in place for the last seven years and to incorporate valuable perspectives.

Joseph Mureithi NCTC Official said the initial phase of consultations yielded significant input, informing the development of a draft document that seeks to address emerging threats, incorporate good practices and strengthen our collective resilience against violent extremism.

The second round of public participation is designed to present the draft document to the public for inputs, solicit feedback and to foster engagement.

NCTC today held a pub
lic participation with security teams and stakeholders from Mombasa, Kwale, Taita-Taveta, Kilifi, Lamu and Kwale counties.

‘We are here to engage the public and our partners about the ongoing review process for the NSCVE. It is part of the constitutional requirement to get public views,’ said Mureithi in Mombasa.

‘We had a strategy that has taken us through from 2016. It has come to a time to build on the lessons learnt, we need also to build on what we have achieved and improve on the ways we deal with Violent Extremism as a country,’ he added.

Mureithi noted that through the 2016 strategy they have been working in a collaborative and multi-agency set up and were able to reduce cases of VE in the country. The new strategy will make the country safer.

The reviewed NSCVE has been established to address issues related to gender, youth, inclusion and the need for male mentorship, the strategy is now anchored in the Constitution, Law and Policy.

The approach to monitoring and evaluation has been improved b
y providing clear outcomes that will serve as the units of measure for impact. The strategy has reorganized the pillars into working groups, transforming them from coordination mechanisms into delivery units.

Each working group will mobilize local actors and have clear outputs aligned with intended outcomes. It provides further clarity on violent extremism as defined by Prevention of Terrorism Act 2012, distinguishing it from other forms of crime.

The strategy also addresses the issues of resourcing and sustainability.

‘We have been working on building trust between the citizens and the security. We have been cooperating well. The fight against terrorism relies on the cooperation between security agencies and the public. We continue to encourage the strengthening of cooperation,’ said Mureithi.

The terrorism menace, he added, is not a government issue but a societal problem that needs the participation of all the people.

Mombasa County Commissioner Mohamed Noor urged residents to give views to improve th
e draft strategy to solve CVE challenges.

Source: Kenya News Agency

Leaders Call For Unity Of Purpose


Leaders from Turkana called for unity among themselves to spearhead development agenda in the county.

Speaking during a fundraiser for Lokitaung Choppers Group in Lokitaung, Turkana North, and Governor Jeremiah Lomorukai said that he brought onboard experienced leaders for effective leadership under his administration.

The speaker emphasized the importance of promoting unity among Turkana’s elected representatives to ensure development and equality in the County, regardless of political affiliations or voting preferences.

Governor Lomorukai said that he and former Cabinet Secretary for Energy John Munyes had resolved the differences, prioritising the county’s interest over personal interest. He pledged to collaborate with other leaders for the benefit of Turkana County.

‘I called my brother John Munyes for a peace meeting in Moroto-Uganda so that we can work together on challenges facing Turkana County. This County is bigger than all of us,’ he said

Governor Lomorukai also urged all leaders to prioritise
Turkana interests and put behind personal interests to promote unity in the County. Meanwhile, He also called Member of Parliament for Turkana North, Ekuwom Nabuin to join the rest of the leaders in pursuance of peace and unity in the County.

Munyes noted that all leaders in Turkana led by Governor Jeremiah should unite to bring in more developments in the county. According to him, lack of unity among leaders in the County has ever since dragged the County behind in terms of development. He also expressed his gratitude to Governor Lomorukai for being the pioneer of pursuance of unity in Turkana County.

Women Representative for Turkana County, Cecilia Asinyen also vowed to support the president’s directive of unity among Turkana leaders for the purposes of development in the County.

‘President Ruto told Turkana County leadership that lack of unity is the reason we are behind in terms of development. Leaders should therefore unite to realize developments for the people of Turkana County,’ she said

Speaker f
or County Assembly of Turkana, Christopher Nakuleu seconded Governor’s sentiment of calling MP for Turkana North Ekuwom Nabuin to join other leaders for the purposes of peace and unity.

Source: Kenya News Agency

Exploring Nakuru’s Street Food Culture: A Journey Through Flavour


In Nakuru, a bustling city nestled in Kenya’s Rift Valley, the culinary landscape is as diverse as its people. Amidst the vibrant streets and lively markets, a culinary phenomenon thrives – the fast-food hawkers. These enterprising individuals, with their makeshift stalls and mobile carts, offer a tantalizing array of quick and delicious meals that have become an integral part of Nakuru’s culinary identity.

From savory samosas to succulent grilled meats, Nakuru’s fast food hawkers cater to a wide range of tastes and preferences, drawing inspiration from both local Kenyan cuisine and global culinary trends. Take Mama Jane Juma, for example, whose spicy chicken pilau has earned her a loyal following among Nakuru’s residents. ‘I learned the recipe from my grandmother,’ she says proudly, as she expertly stirs the fragrant rice in a large pot over an open flame. ‘It’s a family secret, passed down through generations,” she says.

Down the street, Peter Mbogo specializes in chapati wraps filled with a variety of f
illings, from classic beef to smokies. Known as ‘smocha’ in the local dialect, these chapati wraps are popular for their filling nature and convenience. Peter explains, ‘People can enjoy them on the go, whether they’re heading to work or exploring the town.’ His business thrives, especially in the evenings, as passersby stop to indulge in his flavourful creations.

Walking through Nakuru’s streets, the sights, sounds, and smells of the fast-food hawkers create an immersive culinary experience like no other. The aroma of sizzling meat mingling with the scent of freshly baked bread wafts through the air, enticing passersby to stop and sample the offerings.

For many fast-food hawkers in the city, their businesses represent more than just a means of making a living – they are a source of pride and empowerment. John Kamau, who sells grilled maize and sweet potatoes near the town centre, explains, ‘Being a hawker allows me to be my own boss and provide for my family. I take pride in offering quality food at afford
able prices, and seeing my customers enjoy their meals brings me joy.’

Indeed, the entrepreneurial spirit of Nakuru’s fast food hawkers is evident in their dedication to their craft and their commitment to providing excellent service to their customers. Despite facing challenges such as fluctuating food prices and limited access to resources, many hawkers are determined to succeed, using innovation and creativity to overcome obstacles.

In addition to providing delicious food and entrepreneurial opportunities, fast food hawkers play a vital role in supporting local communities and stimulating economic growth. By sourcing ingredients from local markets and suppliers, they contribute to the sustainability of Nakuru’s agricultural sector and help to create jobs and opportunities for small-scale producers.

Moreover, the affordability and accessibility of fast-food hawkers make them a popular choice for residents from all walks of life, regardless of their socioeconomic status. Whether it’s a schoolchild grabbin
g a snack on their way home or a busy office worker picking up lunch during their break, everyone can enjoy the convenience and deliciousness of Nakuru’s street food.

James Mutai, one of the hawkers, encourages the youth to engage in such small businesses as they require minimal capital. ‘Instead of idling around and blaming the government for unemployment, the youth need to be creative and start small businesses. This will help reduce unemployment rates in Kenya,’ he said.

At its core, Nakuru’s fast food hawker culture celebrates Kenya’s rich culinary heritage and showcases the creativity and ingenuity of its people. By preserving traditional recipes while embracing new flavours and influences, fast food hawkers contribute to the ongoing evolution of Kenyan cuisine, keeping it vibrant and dynamic for generations to come.

As the sun sets on another day in Nakuru, the aroma of sizzling meat and spices lingers in the air, a reminder of the vibrant street food scene that defines this dynamic town. For residen
ts and visitors alike, the fast-food hawkers of Nakuru offer not just a meal, but a gastronomic journey that captures the essence of Kenya’s culinary soul.

This expansion includes detailed descriptions of the various fast-food options available in the city, highlighting the diversity and richness of the culinary scene. Additionally, it emphasizes the economic and social impact of fast-food hawkers, portraying them as integral members of the local community. Furthermore, it explores the cultural significance of street food, illustrating how it reflects the city’s heritage and identity.

Apart from the street fast-food hawkers, there’s another dynamic group mostly composed of young women who carry food in baskets to offices, since a number of people prefer the convenience of eating at their desks.

The restaurant and hotel owners tried to protest using public health rules of food handling, but when they realized they were losing business they decided to join the fray. And, they employed extra staff to serve th
e customers who prefer to eat at the offices.

However, much as the current world encourages expediency and pragmatism, there’s a possibility that in future the government and other offices might be forced to fumigate to remove cockroaches and rats.

Source: Kenya News Agency

ADAK Embarks On Tree Planting Drive As They Fight Against Doping In Sports


The Anti-doping Agency of Kenya (ADAK) has embarked on a tree planting exercise where it planted over 2,000 seedlings over the weekend in Elgeyo forest, Elgeyo Marakwet County.

Planting of trees has emerged as a powerful sustainable solution to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change according to ADAK Chief Executive Officer Sarah Shibutse.

Shibutse said that the agency saw fit to plant trees as a way of trying to reach the 15 billion trees that President William Ruto has set as a target by 2032.

‘As an agency this is a major event that we are doing alongside ADAK board members and management to just ensure that we are playing our role in having Kenya achieve a bigger forest coverage,’ she said.

‘Most athletes train in Elgeyo Marakwet County therefore it is significant to plant trees here as they like this place because it is a high-altitude area and am sure the forest cover helps them especially in regaining their red blood cells easily and for them to have better oxygen intake as that helps them
run better,’ she added.

She noted that as an institution, apart from creating awareness on anti-doping they are doing their bit to help have a better environment for athletes to train in.

‘As we prepare for the Olympics in Paris France, we have done our part as an institution we have an enhanced programme that we are collaborating with Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) and Athletics Kenya (AK) which started last year in January and we have managed to test almost all athletes who will be participating,’ she revealed.

She explained that in terms of other sports disciplines, they have been testing and educating the athletes as they get their names from various federations, especially those who have qualified to participate in the various sports disciplines during the Olympics.

She affirmed that this time around they are going to take a cleaner team as they have taken in other editions. ‘We have made good progress. We included about 300 athletes in the registered testing pool and so far, I can say we have tested
all of them at least each of those athletes have done more than one test,’ said Shibutse.

She said that from last year up to date 4000 samples have been collected from athletes this was to ensure that any athlete who is going to participate in any international event is able to do so.

‘The compliance and terms are becoming harsher because athletes are violating more than one anti-doping rule so when they know their sample has been found positive and the athlete has an issue of whereabouts failures, has an issue of tampering or evading that then adds to the harshness of the sanctions, ‘said the CEO.

‘For a positive case, depending on the substance, an athlete can get up to four years and when you add whereabouts failure that is another two years adding to six years in total, and when an athlete has multiple positive samples then they get eight years and if it is not the first time to have violated anti-doping rules then they can get up to 10 years,’ she explained Shibutse.

She added that they were doing th
eir best to roll out a comprehensive education programme so that athletes can understand what their responsibilities are and what can lead them to having a harsh sanction and how they can avoid the same.

Shibutse urged athletes not to run away, and instead comply with what is required of them by attending the education programmes for them to understand what the anti-doping environment is all about.

On his part the ADAK Board Chairman Daniel Makdwallo noted that increasing tree cover in Kenya is important, and more so in a place where athletes train since this was a major area where they carry out activities like educating and testing these athletes.

‘We hope that one day when the forest is fully grown, they will be able to appreciate that even though we seem to be putting them at the edge we are also concerned with their welfare and the environment they train in,’ said Makdwallo.

He noted that ADAK has ramp up its programme in preparation for the Olympics games this coming year being in Category A, rankin
g the government as they try everything they can not to have any positive cases of doping in the international arena.

‘The increased testing has helped in the sense that if we find positive cases it helps us to ensure they do not end up on the international scene,’ he said. Hence, ‘We want to continue to encourage our athletes to stay clean and run clean as it will help us celebrate when a win takes place and it will give us a good public relation internationally,’ said the board chair.

He encouraged athletes and support personnel to understand that it does not do Kenya any good to be listed in Category A, level by world athletics as that will require the agency to conduct three tests before any competition for each athlete.

Makdwallo added that each test was very expensive as the laboratories where they take these tests are not in Kenya therefore the more athletes they test, the more the demand for more resources comes up.

Source: Kenya News Agency

Teachers Plead With Government Not To Scrap School Feeding Programme


The National Assembly’s proposed 2024/25 budget may lead to the absence of school feeding programme beneficiaries in Turkana.

Turkana County KNUT Secretary Peter Ewaat has decried the government’s intention to scrap off this Programme citing that most schools in Semi-Arid areas like Turkana depend mostly on food which triggers their interest for learning.

Ewaat said that pastoralists move in search of pasture and water with their children. The Feeding Programme therefore provides learners an avenue to be comfortable in any learning environment because their basic needs are well catered for.

According to Ewaat, removal of this programme may lead to an increase in school dropout cases because most families in Turkana have a problem providing basic meals to learners.

He pleaded that the government together with other stakeholders should help in funding the programme for sustainability of learners in schools.

The feeding Programme in Turkana and other Semi-arid areas is very important because it provides sui
table conditions for learners to finish their studies.

Source: Kenya News Agency

How CBO Is Tackling Cattle Banditry In Remote Nandi Escarpment


Nandi South’s organised youth groups have implemented empowerment programmes, leading to a significant reduction in cattle rustling.

John Kiplimo Keter, brainchild of bringing households together, says youths who engage in cattle rustling along neighbouring counties forced him and few of his friends to come up with proposals on how they can engage them constructively.

The initiative aims to end cattle rustling and tribal conflicts by requiring every family to own livestock through a merry-go-round initiative in Vihiga, Kisumu, and Nandi.

Meanwhile, Nunua Ng’ombe, kuku na Kondoo groups that loosely translated as ‘buying cattle, chickens and sheep’ has now gained trust among local leadership as the only hope for abandoning cattle rustling activities among residents living along the remote Nandi escarpments.

Keter said that the group was just a village group that started as youth’s empowerment in 2020. ‘We were only ten members representing every family, and we contributed money to buy livestock and after on
e year each household owned a cow and people borrowed the idea,’ he narrated.

He remembers how a group started simply as a model of table-banking and the residents in the larger Bonjoge division embraced the initiative now Kereri, Kenyor, Kapkembu and Chemburu villages have registered with the program.

He revealed that over 250 households have registered with the welfare policy that has enhanced security and brotherhood among the locals. Hence, Keter, the initiative’s founder, has supplied 150 livestock to those without cows, sheep, and chickens, and the committee will ensure their sustainability for production standards and income generation.

Recently at Kereri Primary School in Nandi South attended by close 600 residents witnessed distribution of livestock among families. Whereas, fifteen groups were sharing 70 cows, 300 chickens and 50 sheep which have been bought for the last six months.

The families considered vulnerable were gifted with the livestock to kick start dairy and poultry farming to better
their living standard. ‘We had no roads to access the villages in the cliffs and the youths engaged in animal theft, a retrogressive cultural practice to get dowry. They could cross the border to Vihiga and Kisumu and drive cows from their families,’ Eliud Chesire, a retired teacher remembers

He said close to a decade ago, community clashes hindered development in the community and children were not going to school due lack of school fees.

‘We organised training on animal husbandry to locals to equip them with dairy farming skills. And we are looking forward to mobilizing more members to join community groups to participate in diverse training in farming that is the major economic activity in the region,’ he stated.

Barack Abiyo, the assistant chief for Aldai Division confirmed that the community development has advanced cohesion in the region and neighboring communities. ‘We have realized economic empowerment and education has greatly eradicated vices that destabilized the area, and the nyumba kumi repres
entatives have been spearheading the program to also rid out illicit brews in the villages,’ he said.

Cattle rustling is one of the retrogressive cultural practices that have been the cause of insecurity in some parts of the North Rift region in Kenya.

It has cost the government of Kenya millions of money deploying police and initiating development infrastructure in a bid to quell banditry-stricken regions.

Source: Kenya News Agency

Single Mothers, Albinos Join Hands To Conserve Mangrove Ecosystem


A consortium of single mothers, Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) and the youth have partnered to augment the government tree growing initiative through mangrove ecosystem conservation in Dongu Kundu.

The mangrove ecosystem in Dongo Kundu was adversely affected by the construction of the Sh22 billion Dongo Kundu bypass which entails the construction of bridges and a viaduct and the establishment of a Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in a 3000-acre land.

The environmentalists brave the muddy waters below the Mteza Bridge which is 97.6 per cent complete to plant 2500 mangrove propagules (seedlings).

Faith Mureithi, Chairlady Nyumba ya Mumbi Women Dancers, a group that promotes the national heritage and Kikuyu heritage through dances said they have heeded the President’s call for organisations to join hands with the government in tree growing.

‘We have borne the brunt of climate change. We have witnessed adverse effects of sun during sunny days and if it is rain it causes devastating effects as witnessed recently
where many people lost their lives and properties,’ said Mureithi.

‘We have decided to unite and plant trees. Tree planting has enormous benefits especially these mangroves that prevent soil erosion by controlling the force of sea waves, it is also the breeding ground for fishes, provides a clean environment, and the local community also produces honey as an income generating venture,’ she added.

The groups lauded the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) for supporting the tree planting exercise encouraging other organisations to follow suit. ‘By the end of the year, we are targeting to plant 10,000 trees. If we get the necessary support we will make our county beautiful,’ said Mureithi.

Josphat Msungu, Representative of PWDs said the Head of State directive on tree growing was clear and appealed to organisations spearheading the tree-growing campaign not to leave behind PWDs as they too want to be involved in government programmes.

‘As albinos, we rely on trees for our survival because the scorching sun affects o
ur skin making us vulnerable to skin cancer. Tree growing is important to us and we must partake in the exercise,’ said Msungu.

Evans Momanyi said in the degraded site below the Mtenza Bridge they have so far managed to plant 75,000 mangroves. ‘Today we have planted 2500 mangroves. From here we will be moving to Kaya Bombo, Mwakuzimu, Magoda and KSG. We aim to augment government efforts in tree growing,’ said Momanyi.

Momanyi called on the Mombasa County Government to support groups involved in marine ecosystem conservation. He also advised Dongo Kundu residents to prudently use the land compensation they will get from the government to improve their livelihoods.

Salim Madizi, an Organizing Secretary of Hatuchoki Dongo Kundu Self Help Group that has been planting mangroves in degraded areas as a result of the construction of the bypass promised to protect all the mangroves that will be planted in the area.

The trees, he said, will mitigate the effects of industrial pollution from the factories that will b
e set up in the 3000-acre Dongo Kundu Special Economic Zone (SEZ). ‘Mangroves play a pivotal role in carbon sequestration. We want to plant mangroves around the SEZ to protect ourselves from the industries,’ said Madizi.

The group was contracted to plant trees by the Kenya National Highway Authority (KeNHA) along the Dongo Kundu bypass. Meanwhile, on his part, Moses Masoria urged Kenyans to make tree planting a routine exercise and not to wait for a national holiday.

To realise the 15 billion target by 2032 to mitigate against the adverse effects of climate change, and create adaptation and resilience among Kenyans, he encourages Kenyans to accelerate tree planting. Hence, Hamadi Dende Village Elder vowed to ensure the mangroves are protected and will not be destroyed.

Rose Gitonga, United Single Parents urged the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) to take stern action against factories that release harmful industrial waste to the sea endangering the marine ecosystem.

Source: Kenya News Age
ncy

Irrigation Scheme Launched In Turkana South Sub County


Turkana Governor Jeremiah Lomorukai has officially launched a 30-acre model drip irrigation scheme in Nakwamoru, Kaputir Ward.

The project features a solar-powered borehole and a 50,000-liter elevated steel tank designed primarily to support horticultural farming.

Governor Lomorukai while launching the project highlighted his administration’s focus on development. He emphasized the county government’s commitment to utilising technology to ensure food security in areas with agricultural potential.

‘We are here to showcase the development we’ve undertaken as a county government, and we plan to roll out more projects,’ Governor Lomorukai said. ‘This is just one of the food security projects. We plan to commission more soon.’

The drip irrigation farm, which relies on groundwater, is expected to benefit over 200 farmer households, with women and youth making up a significant portion of the beneficiaries.

The Governor reiterated his and the County Assembly’s dedication to development initiatives. He announced
that his administration had allocated Sh69 million for a restocking programme to support residents affected by various disasters.

The County Security team was represented by Daniel Kinyua (County Police Commander) and Gideon Ombongi (Turkana South DCC).

Earlier in the day, the governor engaged the residents of Lokichar, who were displaced by bandits. He assured them that the government is beefing up security in the area. He also shared plans for resettlement as well as piping of water into the village.

The Governor condemned criminal activity in Turkana South and urged for the perpetrators’ arrest. ‘I won’t be part of those who aim to create chaos in Turkana. My goal is to champion peace and coexistence with our neighbours, like the one we have with residents of Pokot North,’ he stated.

Governor Lomorukai informed residents that a recent meeting with Interior and National Administration Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo aimed to secure additional National Police Reservists to address ongoing insecurity i
n parts of Turkana South and Turkana East constituencies.

He expressed gratitude to the multi-agency security team for their efforts in combating crime and rallied support for President Ruto’s administration, which he commended for fulfilling its promises to Turkana leadership.

County Executive for Agriculture, Dr Antony Apalia, encouraged residents to form cooperatives to gain access to grants and establish market linkages for their agricultural products. Meanwhile, Lokichar MCA and Minority Leader Samuel Lomodo lauded the Nakwamoru drip irrigation project as a testament to Governor Lomorukai’s administration’s efficient service delivery.

He criticized leaders who engage in negativity towards the Governor, especially those with a history of corruption during their time in the county government. Kaputir MCA Michael Aemun expressed his support for the county government, which he believes is on the right track for development, citing visible projects within his ward.

County Executives Patrick Losike (Water
Services), Peter Akono (Lands), David Erukudi (Trades), a host of Chief Officers among others were present during the launch.

Source: Kenya News Agency

Livestock Losses In Homa Bay On The Rise Due To Worms’, Ticks’ Infestation


Farmers from six villages in Kwabwai Ward, Ndhiwa Constituency have benefited from mass deworming of their livestock.

The animals were also sprayed with acaricides to control ticks following a spike in animal diseases and deaths associated with worms and tick infestation.

Ndhiwa Sub County Veterinary Officer Kennedy Oranga said more than 1200 animals benefited from the exercise.

He said the exercise was undertaken after more than 80 cattle died due to diseases associated with worms and ticks.

Oranga said some of the affected villages included Nyoniang’, Ong’ere, Kanyotieno, Nyaguok Oromo Ng’or, Dunga and Nyamware.

‘The animals been treated against worms and tick borne diseases. Let residents remain vigilant and report cases of animal illnesses for prompt response,’ Oranga said.

Speaking during the exercise at Nyoniang Grounds, the officer said they are planning to vaccinate livestock against black water fever.

He said their assessment revealed that black water fever was one of the leading cause of live
stock deaths in the area.

The vet urged residents to report cases of animal diseases and disinfect with acaricides livestock regularly to keep diseases at bay.

‘My office is ready to support farmers in Ndhiwa for the good health of their animals,’ he added.

Residents who took their livestock for the exercise Jane Olango, Erick Awuor and Moses Odondo said they raised an alarm after losing many animals.

Livestock such as cattle, sheep, goats and donkeys were treated during the exercise.

‘Livestock is a source of livelihoods to many people in this area any losses will impact negatively on the local economy,’ Olango said.

Awuor and Odondo commended the Vet Department for the prompt response.

‘Some farmers have counted heavy losses because of the infestation, we are grateful for the swift response to avert further loses,’ Awuor said.

Source: Kenya News Agency

58 HIV-Exposed Infants Graduate From The Prevention Of Mother-To-Child Transmission


HIV-positive mothers are urged to adhere to their medication to safeguard the next generation from HIV and AIDS. This milestone comes as 58 HIV-exposed infants graduate from the Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission (PMTCT) program at Lodwar County Referral Hospital (LCRH).

The 18-month PMTCT programme had a 96.6% success rate, with only two out of 58 children testing positive for HIV. This results in a 3.4% positivity rate, which is below the national recommended rate of under 5%.

Chief Officer for Preventive and Promoter Services, Cathra Abdi, commended the mothers for completing the program and urged them to encourage other women to participate. ‘Even though your children have been declared HIV-free, it does not mean you should stop taking the antiretroviral drugs. You [mothers] must keep taking them,’ she said.

She further advised the mothers to stop consuming alcohol, as it is one of the leading causes of failing to adhere to antiretroviral treatment, thereby compromising their health.

Director
for Preventive and Promotive Services, Dr. Bonventure Ameyo, highlighted the crucial role mother mentors play in following up with mothers in the PMTCT programme. He emphasized that this initiative should be supported as it has proven effective in tracking defaulters.

Deputy Director for Partnership, Nancy Kinyonge, requested partners to collaborate with the county health department to enhance the quality of HIV Testing Services (HTS) in other facilities. Reiterating the importance, Dr. Khali Hassan, Deputy Director of LCRH, emphasised the need to scale up HTS to other sub-county facilities.

County AIDS and STI Coordinator, Samuel Pulkol, highlighted that stigma, poor antenatal care attendance, and home deliveries are some of the leading causes of defaulters and the high transmission rate. Turkana County’s PMTCT rate stands at 13.5%, compared to the national rate of 8.7%.

Partner representatives from AHF Kenya, USAID Imarisha Jamii, World Vision Kenya, the Kenya Red Cross Society, and LCRH staff of the Com
prehensive Care Clinic were also present at the event.

Source: Kenya News Agency