United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) delegation visits MNTRH.

A delegation from the United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS), led by Christine Stegling, Deputy Executive Director and UN Assistant Secretary-General, visited the Mathari MAT (Medication-Assisted Treatment) Clinic during the UNAIDS Programme Coordinating Board (PCB) meeting held in Nairobi, Kenya, from December 9 to 12, 2024. This visit provided the UNAIDS delegation with an opportunity to assess the clinic’s operations and engage directly with the patients receiving treatment.

The UNAIDS team was highly impressed with the services offered by Mathari National Teaching and Referral Hospital (MNTRH), particularly in meeting the complex needs of patients with substance use disorders. The clinic’s comprehensive approach to patient care, combined with its integrated services, has been pivotal in supporting recovery and improving the overall health outcomes of individuals affected by HIV and addiction.

During the visit, Dr. Ruth Korir, MNTRH MAT Clinic In-Charge delivered a detailed presentation on the various initiatives implemented within the MAT Clinic. She emphasized the unique nature of the clinic's services and underscored its crucial role in the broader context of Kenya's national HIV and addiction treatment programs. Dr. Julius Ogato,the CEO of Mathari National Teaching and Referral Hospital  highlighted the clinic's success in providing personalized care, increasing patient retention, and enhancing the quality of life for individuals undergoing treatment.

The CEO also conveyed a request for continued and enhanced support from USAID and other international partners to ensure the clinic's continued success and sustainability. He pointed out that ongoing support is essential for the expansion of services, the provision of advanced training for healthcare professionals, and the procurement of necessary medical supplies.

Dr. Ogato concluded his remarks by expressing profound appreciation to the UNAIDS delegation for their visit and ongoing commitment to addressing global HIV and AIDS challenges. This visit marked a significant moment in the collaboration between UNAIDS and Mathari National Teaching and Referral Hospital and sets the stage for continued discussions on Kenya's HIV response, particularly in the areas of treatment access, harm reduction, and sustainability. The engagement between UNAIDS, Mathari Hospital, and other stakeholders will be pivotal in shaping effective strategies for managing HIV and addiction in Kenya, ensuring long-term progress and positive outcomes for affected communities.