This shift comes at a time when Kenya faces a Ksh 30 billion funding gap for HIV programmes and is re-evaluating its long-term approach after the recent USAID funding freeze.
Under the new plan, HIV care will no longer run as a standalone programme. Instead, testing, treatment, counselling, and preventive services will be offered as part of everyday healthcare in public facilities.
Health officials say this will make services more accessible, reduce stigma, and allow patients to receive multiple services in one visit.
The Ministry of Health explains that integrating HIV services with general healthcare is necessary for sustainability.
For years, Kenya’s HIV response has heavily relied on donor support, particularly for life-saving antiretroviral drugs and prevention programmes.
However, the USAID freeze has exposed the risks of depending too much on external partners.
According to government estimates, the country must close a Ksh 30 billion financing gap to maintain ongoing HIV care without disruption.
This includes funding for medicines, laboratory services, community programmes, and critical support for vulnerable groups.
Officials say the new strategy will help reduce operational costs and improve efficiency, but domestic funding must increase to ensure stability.
The government is now exploring ways to raise more local resources, including stronger budget allocations, partnerships with county governments, and collaboration with private-sector organisations.
There is also growing emphasis on using digital health tools and community health promoters to improve follow-up and reduce treatment interruptions.