HIV Testing Services (HTS) remain the cornerstone of effective HIV prevention, treatment, care, and support programs. Knowing one’s HIV status is the first and most crucial step in the fight against the virus, as it enables individuals to make informed health decisions, access timely treatment, and adopt preventive behaviors.
The World Health Organization (WHO) and the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) strongly advocate for universal access to HIV testing, emphasizing that knowledge of HIV status is essential for both individual well-being and public health progress.
In line with this global call, our organization, in partnership with Population Services Kenya (PS Kenya), is implementing the HIV Self-Testing (HIVST) Project in Muhoroni Sub-County, Kisumu County. The initiative primarily targets men aged 18 to 34 years, a group often underserved in traditional HIV testing programs.
Many men in this age bracket face barriers such as stigma, long waiting times, and confidentiality concerns that prevent them from seeking testing services at health facilities. By introducing self-testing, we are breaking these barriers and empowering men to take control of their health in a private, convenient, and dignified manner.
The HIV Self-Testing Project promotes the use of internationally approved and highly accurate HIVST kits, including OraQuick, Insti, and Sure Check, all of which boast up to 99% accuracy when used correctly. These kits allow individuals to test for HIV in the comfort of their homes, with results available in minutes. This convenience not only increases testing uptake but also fosters a culture of self-awareness and responsibility among young men, who can then seek confirmatory testing and linkage to care where necessary.
To ensure effective implementation, the project actively engages local youth as promoters and HTS counselors. These trained young people serve as trusted community champions, creating awareness, providing guidance on kit use, and linking individuals to health facilities for follow-up services. Their involvement not only enhances community trust but also creates employment opportunities for young people, contributing to broader socio-economic empowerment within Muhoroni Sub-County.
Through this project, more young men are now able to know their HIV status at their own convenience—confidently and confidentially. This marks a significant step forward in accelerating Kenya’s progress toward achieving the global 95-95-95 HIV targets, where 95% of people living with HIV know their status, 95% of those diagnosed are on treatment, and 95% of those on treatment achieve viral suppression.
At its core, the HIV Self-Testing initiative embodies the belief that unity is prosperity. By working together—communities, youth, health providers, and partners—we can create a future where every individual has the knowledge, resources, and confidence to live a healthy and empowered life, free from the fear and stigma of HIV.