17 September 2015: The Joint UN Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) and the Government of Kenya are collaborating to track progress in HIV programming, with the aim of ending the AIDS epidemic in Kenya by 2030.

The ‘Kenya HIV Situation Room’ will collect data on logistics and service delivery related to HIV to develop a comprehensive understanding on the scope of the epidemic and identify areas in need of intensified effort. It will collect and integrate data from four sources: the Kenya Medical Supply Agency; Kenya’s HIV estimates; the District Health Information System; and the National AIDS Control Council on programme implementers and service delivery.

UNAIDS Executive Director Michel Sidibé said such data are “critical for insights into a more effective and efficient response to HIV.” He praised President Uhuru Kenyatta’s leadership, saying it “will help Africa accelerate progress towards ending the AIDS epidemic as part of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).” Sidibé also highlighted the tool’s application for tracking progress on other diseases, such as malaria and tuberculosis.

“What gets measured gets done,” said Kenyatta, noting that the use of information and communications technology (ICT) is a priority for his government. Kenyatta also announced the launch of a campaign against stigma and discrimination. He explained, “We cannot change anyone’s HIV status but we can change our attitude. Let us stop stigma…right now.”

Kenya’s rate of HIV infections have reduced by 77% since its peak in 1993, and AIDS-related deaths have decreased by 74% since their peak in 2003. In 2014, Kenya reported 56,000 new HIV infections. Approximately 57% of adults with HIV in Kenya had access to medicines in 2014.

The Government of Japan provided support for the development of the Situation Room. [UN Press Release] [UNAIDS Press Release]