Nairobi County has posted the highest number of new HIV infections in Kenya, with more than 3,000 fresh cases recorded in the past year, according to official data released on Sunday, November 30, 2025. The report shows a worrying rise in transmission, particularly among young people.
Nationally, Kenya registered 19,991 new HIV infections, marking a 19% increase compared to the previous year. Young people aged 15–34 accounted for 54% of all new cases, highlighting a significant vulnerability among adolescents and young adults.
The new figures come ahead of World AIDS Day, which will be observed on Monday, December 1, 2025. Health officials attribute the spike to low testing rates, inconsistent condom use, and limited access to prevention services – especially in densely populated urban informal settlements.
On the same day the report was released, hundreds of participants gathered at Nyayo National Stadium for the national HIV awareness half-marathon organised by the Ministry of Health and the National Syndemic Diseases Control Council (NSDCC). The event, themed “One Race, One Goal: Ending AIDS among Adolescents and Young People,” featured 21 km, 10 km, 5 km, and 2 km races that kicked off at 6 a.m.
Principal Secretary for Medical Services Dr. Ouma Oluga flagged off the race and urged participants to get tested and help spread messages on prevention. Free HIV testing, counselling, and information on prevention options – including PrEP – were offered at the stadium.
To ensure safety during the marathon, Mombasa Road was temporarily closed between Nyayo Stadium and Museum Hill until 10:30 a.m.
Similar awareness walks and community events took place across all 47 counties as part of the national buildup to World AIDS Day.
Kenya currently has 1.3 million people living with HIV and receiving treatment. However, the rising number of new infections—especially in Nairobi and among the youth – remains a significant concern for health authorities. Officials say continuous awareness campaigns, expanded testing, and easier access to prevention tools are crucial to reversing the trend before the 2030 goal of ending AIDS as a public health threat.
As the country prepares to mark World AIDS Day, the latest data serves as a stark reminder that the fight against HIV is far from over.