The Centre for Health Solutions -Kenya, (CHS) is contributing to the ambitious 95-95-95 targets to help end the HIV/AIDS epidemic in Siaya County. Through the Shinda Tena project, we support the Siaya County Department of Health in the delivery and expansion of quality HIV services.
We ask Denise Aoko, Data Manager, CHS Shinda Tena Project, five questions to understand how best we utilise data and how it assists in contributing towards ending the HIV/AIDS epidemic in Siaya County.
1. Does data provide answers or help us understand where services are needed most?
(Denise): Absolutely! Good data allows for the development and implementation of targeted interventions tailored to specific populations and contexts. By segmenting the population based on demographic characteristics, subpopulations, and behavioural patterns, public health interventions can be customised to address the unique needs and vulnerabilities of different groups.
2. How best do we support the county government and other stakeholders in decision-making through data influence?
(Denise): Data-driven decision-making guides the allocation of resources, such as medical supplies and personnel, to areas most in need. Using data, we assist the county government of Siaya, who are the policymakers, to prioritise resource distribution and ensure efficient response efforts.
3. Over the years, we have seen changes or trends in behaviour among patients and diseases. Does data inform us at a good time, and how does it help in such a scenario?
(Denise): Data analysis techniques, including statistical modelling and machine learning, help assess the risk of epidemic outbreaks and predict future trends. By analysing historical data, policymakers can identify populations at higher risk of infection and provide timely interventions.
4. As a programme, how can we tell if we are reaching the intended audience, leading to behaviour change?
(Denise): Our data facilitates performance monitoring and evaluation by providing key performance indicators (KPIs) to track progress and measure success. By monitoring project performance against established targets, project teams can identify areas for improvement and make necessary adjustments to achieve project goals.
5. Lastly, how do we empower communities through data?
(Denise): Quality numbers are the foundation for informed decision-making. Through our data, we empower communities to take ownership of the HIV response. By sharing relevant data with community leaders and organisations, they can understand the epidemic and participate in decision-making processes regarding prevention and care initiatives.
Through funding from the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) through CDC Kenya, CHS is implementing and expanding HIV prevention and treatment programs in collaboration with Siaya County.
Our priority areas include:
- Comprehensive HIV care and treatment for people living with HIV
- Prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV services
- Targeted support and health interventions for key populations (FSW and MSM)
- Targeted HIV prevention services among adolescents, girls, and Young Women through the Determined Resilient Empowered AIDS Frees Mentored and Safe (DREAMS) initiative
- Integration of TB/HIV collaborative activities
- Antiretroviral (ART) commodity management and support
- Strengthening laboratory systems to support quality monitoring of all people living with HIV
- Promoting and scaling up voluntary medical male circumcision among men and boys, as a critical HIV prevention intervention, and
- Providing information systems management and monitoring and evaluation support.
