Mombasa Senator Mohammed Faki has raised concern over rising HIV infections among young people, warning that the disease remains a major public health threat despite increased awareness and access to treatment.
Speaking during a free medical camp in Vikobani, Jomvu, organised by his office, Faki said recent reports and consultations with public health officials indicate an increase in new HIV infections, particularly among youth aged between 16 and 35 years.
The senator said health officials have also recorded worrying infection rates among young women during their first pregnancies, underscoring the need for renewed prevention efforts targeting adolescents and young adults.
“HIV is still here, and it has no cure. We should not assume it has disappeared simply because treatment is available,” Faki said, urging young people to exercise caution, especially during festive seasons and social events.
He cautioned that an HIV-positive status continues to affect employment and overseas job opportunities, noting that some job seekers, particularly those seeking work abroad, are turned back after mandatory medical examinations.
Faki called on youths, both male and female, to take personal responsibility in preventing new infections and to actively engage in community awareness programmes aimed at reducing transmission.
He also encouraged residents to enrol under the Social Health Authority (SHA), saying registration would improve access to healthcare services while increasing funding to public health facilities through the Facility Improvement Fund.
The senator said stronger collaboration between parents, community groups, and health officials was needed to address the resurgence of infections among young people, adding that prevention efforts must keep pace with changing social trends and lifestyles.
The free medical camp was organised in partnership with Jomvu Youth Network, the Sub-County Ministry of Health, and other healthcare providers, including Bomu Hospital.