On Monday, December 2, 2024, the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) Lanet Barracks commemorated World AIDS Day at 3KR Kasirika Stadium.
The event was officiated by Brigadier Commandant Kamairo who represented the Chief of the Defence Forces, General Charles Kahariri, as the Chief Guest.
He underscored the KDF’s dedication to promoting health, prevention, and solidarity among its personnel and the community.
The CDF through speech read by Brigadier Kamairo reiterated the theme of the day adding that it is a call to protect everyone’s right.
“Our commitment remains strong towards combating the disease, strengthening health systems,” stated the CDF.
On his part Brigadier Commandant Kamairo called on society to embrace Behavior change which he said is key in combating the disease.
This year’s World AIDS Day is commemorated under the theme ‘Take the Right Path’.
The KDF believe in the slogan ‘A Healthy Force is a protected Nation and Country’.
The day saw calls for need to focus more in the preventive measures as well as creating awareness, compassion and prevention of new transmission.
HIV Champion Salan Onyango on his part called for the need to embrace those living positive and treat them with love.
He noted that support Groups for those living positive is key in the fight against new infections.
Salan who is also the President Operation Triple Zero(OTZ)- KDF that helps those living positive, reiterated the need to strengthen sensitization mechanisms.
“We need to step up sensitization even in schools so that we can help our youth and teachers understand issues to do with combating new transmission,” noted Salan.
While noting that there is still stigma especially in schools, Salan who spoke exclusively to this writer, was quick to point out that with such school outreach programs, the issue of stigma shall be addressed.
Though, they have been focusing on KDF sponsored schools, Salan says as from 2025 they will also start visiting civilian schools.
He urged the society to embrace behavior change by ensuring adherence to Abstinence, Being Faithful and ensuring protected sex.
