The World AIDS Vaccine Day also known as HIV Vaccine Awareness Day was first observed on May 18, 1998 to commemorate the anniversary of Clinton’s speech, and the tradition continues to date. KAVI observed this day to acknowledge and thank volunteers, community members, health professionals, supporters and scientists who have contributed to the efforts of finding a safe and effective AIDS vaccine. AIDS remains the fourth-leading cause of death globally and the number one killer in sub-Saharan Africa.

Each year KAVI holds various activities on World AIDS Vaccine Day to raise awareness about the search for an AIDS vaccine. KAVI also conducts community education on HIV prevention emphasizing the important role ordinary people can make to the international effort to fight the pandemic. This year in its part, KAVI held a walk and there after offered free medical camp for the communities around Kasarani at St. Francis medical center.

We at KAVI believe that an AIDS vaccine is still urgently needed as it is one of the most effective public health interventions ever known. History has shown that a vaccine is the most effective way to eliminate a major viral epidemic. It has also shown that vaccines can take decades to develop. HIV was discovered 25 years ago, but we have only had a concerted AIDS vaccine effort for the last ten years. With nearly 7,000 new HIV infections per day, we must continue to do everything in our power to help develop a vaccine that could eliminate the AIDS pandemic once and for all.

Walk picture-1

Walk picture-2

Medical camp picture-1