In the informal settlements of Nairobi (slums), the population affected by HIV, as well as children with disabilities, are two of the most vulnerable categories, as they lack access to adequate dedicated health services that can promote their social inclusion and improve their living conditions. They also experience the widespread stigma prevalent in the country.

The HIV epidemic in Kenya has one of the highest rates globally, with 1.6 million people infected. Over the years, the country has made significant progress in the fight against HIV, but a high percentage of people remain HIV positive.

Regarding disabilities, it is estimated that there is a population of 300,000 children with disabilities in Nairobi, with 80% present in informal settlements. Additionally, at the family level, there is a lack of social and economic capacity among family members to meet the special needs of their children, and there is limited awareness of rights and opportunities.

Medicus Mundi Italy works in various slums of Nairobi to improve the integration between the community and the healthcare system, aiming to combat stigma and promote activities such as testing, counseling, and treatment for young people living with HIV. The focus is on women, internal migrants, and key populations (including sex workers, men who have sex with men, transgender individuals, prisoners, and drug users).

Furthermore, the organization strengthens the community access to socio-health services for prevention, diagnosis, and rehabilitation of children with disabilities in informal settlements.

• Training of healthcare workers on HIV: testing, counselling, and related services (HTS).

• Continuing Medical Education (ECM) sessions on Integrated HIV Healthcare and TB/HIV co-infection.

• Counselling and psychosocial support activities to promote treatment adherence.

• Technical and logistical reinforcement of Youth Friendly Centers (YFC), referral points for youth in the slums located in health centers.

• Awareness-raising on sexual and reproductive health, sexual reproductive rights, HIV prevention, and sexually transmitted diseases in the communities and schools of the territory.

• Training and follow-up for health center staff and socio-health volunteers (CHVs) on disability prevention through prenatal and postnatal care and early diagnosis of disabilities in children aged 0-5.

• Promotion and awareness-raising about the national registration system for disability certification.

• Measures to promote accessibility in health centers for people with disabilities.

• Training for preschool educators on inclusive education and diagnosis.