The Kisumu County administration in Kenya and the transit operator Zipline have teamed up with the Elton John AIDS Foundation to distribute HIV testing kits and treatment to Kenya’s major population centres.
Governor of Kisumu County Prof. Anyang Nyong’o said in a statement that Zipline has “shown over the past seven years that you can significantly improve the quality of care, patient outcomes, and the satisfaction of health care workers when you give health centres access to its instant logistics and delivery system.” “We think that by bringing Zipline’s essential infrastructure to Kenya, we can improve education for young people, bolster our health system, and ensure that people have access to the medications they need when they need them.”
Through this scheme, medical professionals in Kenya can place direct orders with Zipline, where prescription drugs can be delivered in as little as 30 minutes. This is a three-year plan to provide HIV-related supplies to the area.
Kenya, an East African country, has the third highest HIV epidemic globally, affecting around 1.7 million individuals living with HIV. Young people aged 15 to 24 account for 42% of new cases.
The effort is to provide treatment to over 1,000 young people living with HIV, support over 14,000 young people who need to be tested for HIV on a regular basis, and assist 8,000 adolescents who are at-risk in starting PrEP.
Over 80,000 youth have benefited from the program thus far, and airdrops frequently take place during sporting events or concerts.
“Quality medical care must be equally accessible if the HIV/AIDS epidemic is to be stopped. The Elton John AIDS Foundation CEO, Anne Aslett, said in a statement, “We can better provide necessary medications when and where they are needed, outside of conventional health settings and in the areas young people frequent most. This is made possible by our historic partnership with Zipline and community-based partners.” Youth will make safer and better decisions when they are given the proper information and programs that meet them where they are. As a result, there will be a decrease in HIV infection and better health outcomes for them, their loved ones, and their peers.
According to Zipline, the country’s general health has greatly improved as a result of this program, with vaccination rates and the availability of basic medical supplies rising throughout healthcare facilities.
Head of Zipline Kenya Winfred Njeri Muiruri said in a statement, “Our instant delivery service streamlines supply chains, allowing governments and health providers to bring care to people when they need it.” “We are one step closer to providing this service to millions more people with the beginning of our work with the Kisumu government, the Elton John AIDS Foundation, and community partners.”
