Addressing HIV Drug Shortage in Kenya: A Crucial Action

Abstract

HIV/AIDS is one of the major public health concerns worldwide. The African region is the most affected worldwide, with Kenya being the joint sixth largest epidemic in the region. Kenya’s health system is characterized by donor reliance and donor concentration. As a result, key national strategic programs including HIV program are significantly funded by foreign aid. While the challenge of insufficient internal funding has relatively being cushioned by external support, Kenya’s transition from low income status to lower-middle-income status in 2015 has resulted to continued decline in donor funding. The recent stand-off between the United States agency (USAID) and the Kenyan government has further worsened the situation on account of concerns about mismanagement of funds by the Kenya Medical Supply Authority (KEMSA) and questionable tax policies. This situation has led to significant shortage of antiretroviral drugs in a subsector that is heavily dependent on donor funding, consequently posing significant threat to the lives of people who are dependent on the life-saving drugs. It is important for Kenyan government to implement well-planned strategies and informed decisions towards addressing acute shortages of HIV drugs in Kenya in order to prevent impending treatment failure and the emergence of drug resistance. This paper seeks to discuss the efforts and challenges faced in the fight against HIV in Kenya including potential challenges due to ARV drugsshortages. Thus, providing evidence for regional and global policymakers to take action on ARV shortage and foster sustainable solutions.