HIV-Exposed Infants Celebrate Two-Year Milestone at Graduation

Celebrating HIV-exposed infants (HEI) who reach two years without contracting the virus is a significant achievement in HIV care.

This joyous milestone, made possible through the dedicated care of their breastfeeding mothers living with HIV and support from AMPATH staff and USAID, is a proud moment worthy of a graduation celebration.

USAID AMPATH Uzima held a vibrant ceremony at Iten County Referral Hospital, Elgeyo Marakwet County, where 235 infants proudly graduated. The event began with an energetic procession led by the Assis dancers whose rhythmic performance guided guests from the hospital entrance to the Comprehensive Care Clinic (CCC) unit. Distinguished leaders, including Elgeyo Marakwet First Lady Fiona Rotich, Deputy Governor Prof. Grace Cheserek, and Prof. Sylvester Kimaiyo, the Chief of Party, USAID AMPATH Uzima graced the occasion.

The ceremony blended entertainment with health education, with Adolescents and Young People (AYPs), the County AIDS and STI Coordinator (CASCO), and program staff delivering impactful talks. Topics included the U=U (Undetectable = Untransmittable) campaign and the unveiling of the AYP Acceleration Plan for 2024-2028 which promises a brighter future for young people.

Meanwhile, in Uasin Gishu County, another HEI graduation ceremony celebrating 75 infants was held at the Riley Mother and Baby Square. This milestone, achieved through collaboration between USAID AMPATH Uzima and Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH), highlighted the program’s success in reducing mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) of HIV.

Globally, MTCT risk can reach 45%, but through integrated prevention strategies, MTRH has significantly lowered this figure. Speaking on behalf of MTRH CEO Dr. Phillip Kirwa, Dr. Simiyu Taabu stressed the importance of compassion and partnership in achieving these outcomes. The Deputy Chief of Party for USAID AMPATH Uzima, Dr. Beatrice Jakait, expressed gratitude to USAID and the U.S. government for their unwavering support in this endeavor.

These events underscore the program's commitment to early infant testing and care which are critical steps in reducing HIV conversion rates. The graduation ceremonies are not just celebrations but powerful reminders of what compassion, innovation, and collective action can achieve in the fight to eliminate MTCT of HIV.

As these infants graduate, they carry with them the hopes of a healthier generation, proving that together, we can turn the tide against HIV.