Dorothy Onyango was recognized among 5 other champions from Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda and Burundi during the F.I.E.R.C.E Award ceremony which was held in Uganda on 8^th June, 2023. The courageous women have made a substantial contribution to the community through their work in empowering women and young women in HIV prevention and treatment response in their countries.

Ms. Dorothy Onyango is the Chief Executive Officer & founder member of women fighting AIDS in Kenya (WOFAK). Born in 1958, Dorothy has a degree in community development and currently pursuing a Master’s degree in leadership.

She was one of the founder member of ICW Global in 1992, founding member and Chair of Pan African Positive Women Coalition (PAPWC), was also the first chair of National Network of people living with HIV in Kenya (NEPHAK), was board member of the National AIDS Control Council (NSDCC) until 2021 chairing the programmes committee and many other local organizations.

During a F.I.E.R.C.E Award consultative meeting held at Summerdale Hotel, Nairobi on 22^nd May, 2023, women living with HIV representatives from across the country met and shared their various contributions in their communities. ICWK Patron, Dorothy Odhiambo, emphasized the importance of self-care, wisdom, education, and skills in the fight against HIV.

ICW Kenya Chapter ED, Lucy Ghati, stated that the time for mourning is over and emphasized the importance of working together to end AIDS in children, with women playing a crucial role. Lucy encouraged women to increase their capacity, support and build each other, and document their stories to inspire others.

The annual F.I.E.R.C.E Woman Living with HIV Award was introduced in 2021 by the International Community of Women Living with HIV in Eastern Africa (ICWEA) to honor and appreciate the women who are Fighters, Intelligent, Empowered, Resilient, Courageous and Excelling in the continuing advocacy and activism for women living with HIV in Kenya and the world at large.

Dorothy was awarded among 5 other champions; Seconde Nsabim(Burundi), Kuradusenge Pelagie(Rwanda), Rustika Bnazi(Tanzania) and Milly Katana from Uganda.

ICW Kenya in partnership with the Kiambu County Department of Health has been conducting HPV and Covid-19 Vaccinations various Sub-Counties in Kiambu County. The Covid-19 vaccinations were mainly community focused while the HPV Vaccines were mainly focused in Junior and Senior Secondary schools where they would be able to reach young girls who qualify to receive the vaccine as per the Kenyan guidelines.

HPV (human papillomavirus) vaccinations are an important preventive measure against HPV infections, which can lead to various types of cancers, including cervical cancer, as well as genital warts. HPV vaccination is typically recommended for both males and females before they become sexually active, as it is most effective when given before exposure to HPV. The HPV vaccine is administered as a series of shots. The recommended dosing schedule may vary depending on the specific vaccine and country guidelines.

In Kenya, the vaccine is administered to adolescents between the ages of 10 and 14. According to the Kenya Human Papillomavirus and Related Cancers, fact sheet, 2023, current estimates indicate that every year 5236 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer and 3211 die from the disease.

Cervical cancer ranks as the 2nd most frequent cancer among women in Kenya and the 2nd most frequent cancer among women between 15 and 44 years of age. About 9.1% of women in the general population are estimated to harbor cervical HPV-16/18 infection at a given time, and 63.1% of invasive cervical cancers are attributed to HPVs 16 or 18.

Both HPV and COVID-19 vaccinations are of paramount importance in safeguarding public health. HPV vaccination helps prevent HPV-related cancers and diseases, while COVID-19 vaccination reduces the risk of severe illness and contributes to controlling the spread of the virus. By prioritizing and promoting these vaccinations, we can protect individuals, communities, and global health while working towards a healthier future for all.

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on global health, and vulnerable populations, including women living with HIV, face unique challenges. In Kenya, where HIV prevalence is high among women, the intersection of COVID-19 and HIV has amplified the need for COVID-19 vaccinations. Today, we will explore the specific reasons why COVID-19 vaccinations are essential for Kenyan women living with HIV.

Increased Vulnerability: Women living with HIV are at a higher risk of severe illness if infected with COVID-19 due to weakened immune systems. Vaccination can significantly reduce the risk of severe COVID-19 outcomes and hospitalization, safeguarding the health of women living with HIV and mitigating potential complications.

Protection of Healthcare Access: COVID-19 vaccinations among Kenyan women living with HIV can help protect healthcare access for HIV-related services. By reducing the likelihood of severe illness, vaccinations prevent additional strain on healthcare systems, ensuring that resources remain available for essential HIV testing, treatment, and care services.

Mitigating Disruptions in HIV Care: The pandemic has disrupted HIV care services in Kenya, making it challenging for women to access necessary medications and healthcare facilities. COVID-19 vaccinations contribute to the overall control of the pandemic, allowing for the resumption of routine HIV care and mitigating interruptions in treatment, counseling, and support services.

Addressing Stigma and Discrimination: The intersection of COVID-19 and HIV has led to an increase in stigma and discrimination faced by women living with HIV. Promoting COVID-19 vaccinations can help counteract misinformation and misconceptions surrounding the virus, reducing fears and discrimination while fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for these women.

Contributing to Community Protection: COVID-19 vaccinations not only protect individuals but also contribute to community protection by reducing the transmission of the virus. Women living with HIV who receive the COVID-19 vaccine play a vital role in preventing the spread of COVID-19 among their families, communities, and fellow HIV-positive individuals, promoting overall public health.

In the context of the intersection between COVID-19 and HIV, COVID-19 vaccinations are crucial for Kenyan women living with HIV. Vaccinations offer protection against severe illness, safeguard healthcare access, mitigate disruptions in HIV care, and combat stigma and discrimination. By prioritizing COVID-19 vaccinations among this vulnerable population, we can enhance their health outcomes, ensure uninterrupted HIV services, and contribute to community protection. It is essential to promote equitable access to vaccines and prioritize the needs of women living with HIV in the ongoing fight against COVID-19 in Kenya.