A Crisis Unfolding
The abrupt halt of U.S. government funding for crucial HIV and TB programs in Kenya has triggered widespread concern across communities and civil society organizations (CSOs). With a stop-work order issued and USAID offices shutting down operations, thousands of lives are at risk. The impact is already being felt, with essential services like viral load testing, community-led monitoring, and diagnostic infrastructure grinding to a halt.
On February 10, 2025, key representatives from Kenyan communities and civil society convened to discuss urgent responses to the crisis. Their collective goal: hold both the U.S. and Kenyan governments accountable for their roles in health leadership and strengthen global partnerships to mitigate the crisis.
Photo courtesy of Citizen Digital. Click here for the full story ..
The Immediate Fallout
While a limited waiver will keep drug supplies running until April 2025, other vital services have been severely disrupted:
- People living with HIV (PLHIV) are being redirected to government clinics, raising concerns over stigma, discrimination, and lack of specialized care.
- USAID-funded TB and HIV programs have come to a standstill, halting diagnostic services and sample networking, increasing the risk of undetected cases and new infections.
- Community-led health initiatives have been crippled, leaving grassroots organizations struggling to fill the gap.
- CSOs face imminent shutdowns and mass layoffs, putting a strain on advocacy efforts and mental health support for frontline workers.
A Call to Action
During the meeting, Kenyan civil society and community leaders emphasized the urgency of fast-tracking the National Health Transition and Sustainability Plan. The transition must not only be swift but also inclusive, ensuring meaningful engagement with affected communities and civil society organizations.
The humanitarian impact is undeniable—discordant couples, key populations, and at-risk communities now face heightened risks due to the lack of access to PrEP and prevention services. If no immediate action is taken, the consequences could be catastrophic.
Standing Together for Health Justice
Now, more than ever, global solidarity is crucial. Kenyan communities and civil society are rallying to ensure that the crisis does not spiral out of control. The coming days will be critical in amplifying community voices, advocating for urgent policy action, and ensuring that both the U.S. and Kenyan governments remain accountable.
We urge all stakeholders—local and international—to join in this fight. Health is a human right, and we must protect it at all costs.
📢 Take Action. Spread the word. Stand with Kenyan communities.
For more information, contact:
Nelson Otwoma, Executive Director, NEPHAK
(On behalf of the Kenya Communities and Civil Society Leadership Group)
Click below to read the official letter.