The University of Nairobi community comprising of staff and students marked the World AIDS Day on November 29, 2019 with the theme: Communities make the difference.
Speaking during the event, Dr. Vijoo Rattansi, University of Nairobi Chancellor, observed that the University of Nairobi has been leading in conducting HIV – AIDs research through the College of Health Sciences. She observed that HIV-AIDs is the most destructive epidemic that has claimed so many lives in the past. “Evidence suggests that HIV-AIDs prevalence is not increasing, but is stable. Stigma is on the downward trend and many people are seeking treatment. Let us not lose focus, we need zero infections,” she said. The Chancellor, confirmed her commitment to help the University of Nairobi increase her commitment towards response to HIV-AIDs through research.
Ag. UHS Director, Dr. Doreen Asimba takes the Chancellor and the Chair of Council through the
exhibition stands during World Aids Day 2019 commemoration on Nov 29, 2019
Prof. Isaac Mbeche, the University of Nairobi Vice Chancellor, noted that the University is better positioned to work with professionals across the globe in the research to help those affected by HIV-AIDS. “This disease knows no boundaries, everyone is touched by HIV-AIDS. We share the responsibility as a community and hence the theme: community makes the difference,” he said. The community play a critical role in planning, implementation and service delivery of HIV-AIDS related activities. He pointed out the good work being done by Kenya AIDs Vaccine Initiative(KAVI) in doing HIV-AIDS research. The Vice Chancellor, also pointed out that the University Health Services, UHS, is keen in helping staff and students who are affected or infected by the HIV-AIDS. University of Nairobi offers HIV – AIDS counselling and testing services, male circumcision, pre-exposure and post-exposure prophylaxis among a varied of services.
During the event, staff and students got a chance to visit various exhibition stands that were doing free eye checkups,dental checkups, prostate cancer screening, HIV- AIDs testing among others.
The event was sponsored by Haco Industries, Capital FM and organized by University Health Services headed by Dr. Doreen Asimba, Ag. Chief Medical Officer. The event was graced by Council Chair. Prof. Julia Ojiambo.
