𝐁𝐮𝐧𝐠𝐨𝐦𝐚 𝐑𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐫𝐝𝐬 𝐃𝐫𝐨𝐩 𝐢𝐧 𝐇𝐈𝐕 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐚𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐚𝐬 𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐲 𝐖𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐬 𝐀𝐠𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐬𝐭 𝐑𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠 ‘𝐓𝐫𝐢𝐩𝐥𝐞 𝐓𝐡𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭

Bungoma County has registered a slight drop in HIV prevalence, falling from 2.3% in 2023 to 1.7% in 2024, according to new county statistics released during World AIDS Day.

Speaking on behalf of Health CECM CPA Chrispinus Barasa, County Director of Health Dr. Caleb Watta said the latest report places Bungoma’s overall HIV prevalence at 1.78%.

 While lower than in many counties, he noted the figures still represent thousands living with HIV who need continuous support and care.

Barasa, through Dr. Watta, raised concern over the “triple threat” facing young people—new HIV infections, teenage pregnancies, and gender-based violence. In 2024 alone, the county recorded 679 new infections, with women disproportionately affected at 2.53% compared to 1.01% among men.

He added that teenage pregnancies remain high, calling for stronger prevention efforts, youth-friendly services, and comprehensive sexuality education. Barasa also highlighted the county’s new gender-mainstreaming policy adopted in late 2024 to combat GBV and ensure survivors receive justice and support.

He urged residents to end stigma, protect young people, and work collectively to eliminate AIDS and the triple threat by 2030.

The event was attended by Deputy County Director of Health Dr. Emma Nyaboke, CHMT members, senior health workers, and development partners.