ARVs supply in the country will remain steady, CS Barasa assures

There will be no disruptions in the supply of antiretroviral (ARV) drugs in the country despite the recent suspension of funding for the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) by the US government, says Health Cabinet Secretary Deborah Barasa.

The Trump administration's announcement of USAID's funding suspension sparked concern among Kenyans relying on ARVs, with fears that their treatment could be disrupted since the agency funded key HIV/AIDS programmes in the country.

Speaking during the national celebration of World Oral Health Day at Mosoriot Kenya Medical Training Campus in Chesumei Constituency, Nandi County, CS Barasa reassured the public that the government remains committed to ensuring uninterrupted access to the medication.

“As a government, we will not allow any patient using ARVs to face supply challenges. There is no need for panic,” she said.

Barasa also used the occasion to highlight the growing concern over oral health issues in the country, urging Nandi residents to prioritize their dental well-being.

She noted that the introduction of the Community Oral Health course at Mosoriot KMTC and other training institutions aims to bridge the gap in oral healthcare by equipping specialists to tackle dental health challenges.

While acknowledging the key role played by community health promoters, the CS urged them to use every platform available to educate the public on proper oral hygiene and to inform them about the government’s broader healthcare initiatives, including the Social Health Authority (SHA).