PS Gathecha opens Validation Workshop on HIV and Syndemic Diseases in Machakos County

Principal Secretary Ministry of Public Service and Human Capital Development Mr Amos Gathecha today opened a validation workshop for the draft Public Service Workplace Policy on HIV, AIDS, and Related Diseases. The workshop which is ongoing at the Machakos University has been organized by the Counselling and Wellness Directorate in the Ministry of Public Service in collaboration with the National Syndemic Disease Control Council, aims to validate and align the draft policy with public service human resource objectives and national standards.

While addressing the stakeholders, PS acknowledged the government’s commitment to health through frameworks such as the Constitution of Kenya and Vision 2030, which recognize health as a fundamental right. With approximately 3.7% of public servants living with HIV, the revised policy seeks to address the impact of HIV/AIDS on workplace productivity, promote access to healthcare without discrimination, and foster a safe and inclusive work environment.

The PS highlighted the link between HIV/AIDS and mental health challenges, noting the rising demand for counselling services among public servants due to economic, social, and health-related pressures. He outlined key achievements, including the review of the Public Service Counselling and Wellness Policy (2024), increased access to counselling services, the establishment of Counselling and Wellness Units in Huduma Centers, the training of Mental Health Champions, and the provision of tele-counseling services through the Huduma helpline.

In his closing remarks, PS emphasized on the  ongoing measures to reduce HIV infections in the public service, including policy reviews, adherence to the Human Resource Manual, and expanded wellness services. He acknowledged  the collaborative effort behind the policy’s development and stressed the importance of aligning it with the Public Policy Handbook for Kenya, 2024. Mr. Gathecha urged stakeholders to commit to finalizing and implementing the policy, highlighting its critical role in improving public service health outcomes and ensuring dignity and fairness in the workplace.