Kenya to launch yearlong national HIV/AIDS strategy

The Kenyan government will launch a national strategic plan that aims to provide affordable and accessible services to all HIV/AIDS patients, Kenya's Capital News reports.

The plan -- which will run from 2009 to 2010 -- is "on course" to meet a July launch deadline, according to Special Programs Minister Naomi Shaaban. "An HIV/AIDS-free society is our vision. The new strategic plan will aim to achieve universal access for quality integrated services," she said.

The new policy will focus on prevention services and will "reduce HIV-related illnesses," Shaaban said. It also aims to provide cost-effective services related to prevention, treatment, care and support. Shaaban said that the plan will include community-based programs to support universal access. National AIDS Control Council Director Alloys Orago said that increased government funding for HIV programs is needed "so that we do not depend so much on donor support." He called on the public to take advantage of voluntary counseling and testing centers, adding that these centers will "ensure that 80% of Kenyans will have known their status, which will be good for planning." He continued, "Those who are positive will be put on treatment and this will reduce the number of orphans," which stands at about 2.4 million (Ndong'a, Capital News, 3/25).