Abstract

According to UNAIDS, fewer than 5% of AIDS cases in Kenya are the result of sexual transmission of HIV between men. However, studies by AMREF of STDs among truck drivers show evidence of homosexual activity, especially between older men and boys aged 12-16 years. The studies are supported by anecdotal evidence which suggests that sex between men in Kenya is more common than generally believed. Statistics are hard to come by as homosexuality is a criminal offense. As society disapproves, homosexuals often manage to keep their sexuality a secret but unprotected sex with their wives and male partners increases the risk of HIV transmission. On the Kenyan coast, homosexuality is more accepted and there are "marriages" between men. Maina Kahindo of the Ministry of Health does not see this as a area needing urgent attention: "Taking into account other modes of transmission of HIV/AIDS, homosexuality is negligible and should not take up our resources and time." Also in Kenya, the Nakuru District Commissioner has been speaking at the opening of a 2-day workshop for youth. He announced that nearly 28% of the district's youth were infected with HIV.

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