10, 223 clients have been reached by mobile Voluntary Counselling and Testing (VCT) services in Mavoko Sub County over the past four months, courtesy of World Provision Centre.
This was disclosed by the NGO’s director Rev Simon Ngiki who said these numbers only include those reached by the organisation in Athi River, Kinanie, Chyumbi and Mlolongo towns only over the period.
“Mobile VCT is very effective in Mavoko Sub County since it allows clients receive the services at their door steps whether at home, work place or their business premises,” said Ngiki.
Ngiki said on Wednesday that data obtained by the organisation show that 1,850, 2,579, 3,350 and 2,444 clients were reached by the institution’s VCT staff in January, February, March and April respectively.
He said the numbers were overwhelming if statistics from the organisation’s VCT site in Mtito Andei were to be considered.
World Provision Centre has two VCT sites, one in Athi River and another in Mtito Andei town.
Ngiki said given that Athi River is an industrial town and majority of the residents always busy at work, mobile VCTs had made it possible for the working populace to create time and get the services since the providers hang around entrances of the companies especially during lunch and departure hours.
“Mobile VCT is a critical pillar in having universal access to HIV services, our officers immediately link those found with the virus to facilities which offer care and treatment services,” said Ngiki.
Ngiki said the referral method of handling clients had failed arguing those found with the virus after testing were not going for care and treatment facilities for fear of stigmatisation.