Nakuru County has taken a significant step toward self-reliance in combating HIV and Tuberculosis (TB) by transitioning these programs from external aid dependency to core functions of the County Government. This shift ensures the continuity of efforts against these diseases, regardless of changes in international funding. The County Department of Health convened a meeting with the first cohort of five sub-counties, involving Medical Superintendents, Sub-County Health Records and Information Officers (HRIOs), Sub-County TB Coordinators, County AIDS and STIs Coordinators (CASCOs), and development partners. The focus was to advance local ownership and accountability in HIV and TB interventions at the sub-county level.
Health CECM Roselyn Mungai emphasized the importance of embedding HIV and TB interventions into the county’s health system for long-term sustainability. “This approach goes beyond service delivery. It ensures every sub-county takes responsibility for HIV and TB programs, integrating them into daily operations and aligning with county priorities,” Mungai stated. The meeting served as a co-creation exercise, fostering locally driven strategies in four key areas: sustainable financing, workforce capacity building, integration of HIV and TB services into general health programs, and strengthening community participation.
The initiative addresses the need for Nakuru County to maintain robust health interventions as global funding landscapes evolve. By embedding these programs into the county’s health framework, Nakuru aims to secure consistent service delivery, improve health outcomes, and reduce reliance on external donors. The co-creation process allows sub-counties to tailor strategies to their specific needs, ensuring community-level ownership and accountability. This approach also aligns with Kenya’s national health goals, including achieving universal health coverage and meeting global targets for HIV and TB control.
The first cohort meeting marks the beginning of a county-wide effort. A second group of sub-counties will convene soon to complete the process, ensuring all regions contribute to a unified HIV and TB sustainability framework. This collaborative approach involves stakeholders at every level, from health workers to community leaders, fostering a sense of shared responsibility. Development partners present at the meeting provided technical support, reinforcing the importance of partnerships in achieving sustainable health outcomes.
Nakuru County’s health system serves a population of over 2 million, with HIV and TB remaining significant public health challenges. Integrating these programs into core health services ensures access to testing, treatment, and prevention for all residents. The county is also leveraging data through its Health Records and Information Officers to monitor progress and identify gaps in service delivery. This data-driven approach will guide resource allocation and program implementation, ensuring efficiency and impact.
The transition to county-led HIV and TB programs positions Nakuru as a model for other regions in Kenya. By prioritizing sustainable financing, the county aims to allocate local resources to support health interventions, reducing dependency on unpredictable external funding. Workforce capacity building will equip health workers with the skills needed to deliver integrated services, while community participation ensures that interventions reflect local realities and needs.
Residents and stakeholders are encouraged to engage with the County Department of Health to support these efforts. For more information on how to participate in Nakuru’s HIV and TB programs or to access health services, visit the official Nakuru County Health Department website. This initiative marks a pivotal moment in building a resilient, self-sustaining health system for a healthier future.