Why the coastal city continues to battle new infections even as treatment improves

TURNING THE TIDE

By SHARON OTISO

Why the coastal city continues to battle new infections even as treatment improves



Mombasa’s turquoise coastline, thriving tourism, and role as East Africa’s busiest port present a picture of growth and opportunity. But beneath this vibrancy lies a persistent public health concern HIV. According to the National Syndemic Diseases Control Council, the county’s HIV prevalence stands at about 4.4 percent, translating to more than 54,000 people living with HIV, higher than Kenya’s national average. While new infections have dropped by an impressive 65 percent over the past decade, the virus continues to affect thousands of residents each year, highlighting a gap between progress and reality.

City of Opportunity  and Hidden Risk

Mombasa’s identity as a global tourist destination and trade hub contributes to its vulnerability. The constant movement of people including traders, seafarers, and tourists  increases social interactions that can heighten exposure to HIV. Informal settlements and densely populated neighborhoods further complicate prevention efforts, often limiting access to healthcare and accurate health information.

Key populations, including sex workers and people who inject drugs, remain disproportionately affected. These groups often face stigma and discrimination, making it difficult to access essential services such as testing, counseling, and treatment.


“Mobility and economic activity in coastal cities can accelerate HIV transmission if prevention efforts are not sustained.”

Treatment Success Story  But Prevention Still Lags


Mombasa has made remarkable strides in treatment. Nearly 96 percent of people living with HIV are on antiretroviral therapy (ART), supported by the government and partners such as the World Health Organization. ART allows individuals to live long, healthy lives and reduces the risk of transmission to almost zero when the virus is suppressed  a breakthrough widely known as Undetectable = Untransmittable (U=U).

Yet prevention remains a challenge. Stigma continues to discourage many from getting tested early, while others lack access to youth-friendly and community-based health services. Late diagnosis not only affects individual health outcomes but also increases the likelihood of further transmission.


 Human Face Behind the Statistics

Behind the numbers are real stories families navigating lifelong treatment, young people uncertain about their health, and healthcare workers striving to close the gaps. Women and young people remain particularly vulnerable, driven by economic inequalities, limited access to information, and social pressures.


Experts emphasize that tackling HIV in Mombasa requires more than medical solutions. It calls for community-driven approaches, education, and efforts to address stigma and inequality.


“Ending HIV is not just a medical goal  it is a social and economic mission.”




Comments

  1. Umil G. GabuApril 22, 2026 at 9:04 PM

    :
    This really captures the contrast between progress and ongoing risk in Mombasa. The way you highlight how mobility, tourism, and economic activity can unintentionally increase vulnerability adds important depth to the conversation. It’s a strong reminder that reducing HIV isn’t just about statistics, but also about addressing access, stigma, and the realities of high-risk communities. Insightful and eye-opening piece

    ReplyDelete
  2. Lilly cruzApril 23, 2026 at 3:50 AM

    This is very true. HIV in Mombasa is not just a health issue but also a social and economic challenge. Limited access to information, poverty, and social pressure make it harder to fight. We need more awareness, education, support, and less stigma in our communities. Ending HIV starts with all of us.

    ReplyDelete
  3. Lilly cruzApril 23, 2026 at 3:51 AM

    This is such an important message and very true. HIV in Mombasa is not only a medical issue but also a social and economic challenge that affects many lives every day. Limited access to the right information, poverty, stigma, discrimination, and social pressure continue to make the fight against HIV even harder. Many people still suffer in silence because they fear being judged or rejected by society. That is why education, awareness, and community support are very important. People need safe spaces where they can ask questions, get tested, seek treatment, and live without shame. Ending HIV is not just about medicine and hospitals, but also about changing mindsets, fighting inequality, and creating a supportive community for everyone. When we stand together, spread awareness, and show compassion instead of judgment, we move closer to a healthier and stronger society. Truly, ending HIV is a social and economic mission for all of us.

    ReplyDelete
  4. wasike brianApril 23, 2026 at 4:04 AM

    quite informative

    ReplyDelete
  5. Max MiregwaApril 23, 2026 at 5:25 AM

    This is nice Sharon!

    ReplyDelete
  6. Max MiregwaApril 23, 2026 at 5:25 AM


    This is nice Sharon!

    ReplyDelete
  7. FATMA HATIB SALIMApril 23, 2026 at 5:43 AM

    Nice article

    ReplyDelete
  8. Khamisi kalama (Davii)April 23, 2026 at 8:08 PM

    HIV in Mombasa is not a joke—stay safe, stay aware...good job sharon 👏

    ReplyDelete

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