This archive report was first published on 8 November 2019.
On November 8, 2019, the Center for Disease Control (CDC) pledged Sh1.7 billion to support the fight against HIV in Homa Bay County. The funds will be channeled through various non-governmental organisations dealing with AIDS control in the county.
Speaking during a courtesy call to Homa Bay Governor Cyprian Awiti, CDC Country Director Marc Bulterys said the funds will be used in various programmes dealing with HIV and AIDS control and treatment. Bulterys stated, 'We are committed to the fight against HIV control and medication in this county. The funds will help improve the health of Homa Bay residents.'
Awiti's administration has prioritised the fight against HIV and AIDS, and the concerted effort with NGOs has enabled a reduction in the HIV prevalence rate from 26.7 per cent in 2013 to the current 20.7 per cent. Awiti appealed to the CDC to help his administration equip a Sh21 million blood bank constructed at the county referral hospital, stating, 'We are appealing for your support to help us in equipping our blood bank to cushion patients from lack of blood.'
Awiti's deputy, Hamilton Orata, added that the blood bank will also support patients in hospitals in Migori, Nyamira, and Kisii counties. Bulterys' office will discuss the request for blood bank equipment and make a decision later.
