VJ Patelo reveals reason he is happy to learn HIV infections in Kenya have surged
ArbanTone singer VJ Patelo has said he feels a certain grim satisfaction at learning that HIV infections in Kenya have surged.
Speaking in a video shared on his TikTok page on Saturday, December 6, 2025, Patelo explained that the rising numbers serve as a harsh lesson for those who indulge in promiscuity and unsafe sexual practices.
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The singer shared that hearing about the statistics struck him deeply, adding that it pained him to think of people suffering from HIV.
“It excites me so much to hear about people suffering from HIV. It really hits hard. Those who love promiscuity and those who indulge too much in sexual activities should know that they will learn the hard way. This is a serious matter, and I hope these numbers serve as a warning to everyone,” Patelo said.
Worrying report
Patelo’s statement came after the National Syndemic Disease Control Council’s HIV Estimates Report for 2025 went viral, revealing that Kenya recorded 19,991 new HIV infections, up from 16,752 the previous year, marking a 19 per cent increase.
The report highlighted that most new infections were concentrated among people aged 15 to 34, with ten counties, including Nairobi, Migori, Kisumu, Homa Bay, Busia, Siaya, Kakamega, Nakuru, Mombasa, and Bungoma, accounting for 60 per cent of the cases.
The report also noted a national HIV prevalence of 3.0 per cent, with women carrying a higher burden at 4.0 per cent compared to 2.0 per cent for men.
“In 2024, the national HIV prevalence stood at 3.0 per cent, with higher rates among females (4.0%) compared to males (2.0%),” details the Kenya HIV Estimates report.
Additionally, 21,007 AIDS-related deaths were recorded in 2024, up from 18,473 the previous year, while 1,326,336 people were living with HIV, including 62,798 children.
At the same time, NSDCC projections for 2025 show a potential 52 per cent decrease in new infections if current interventions are maintained and strengthened.
The release of the report came as the world marked World AIDS Day on December 1, 2025.
While unveiling the it, Health Principal Secretary Ouma Oluga said the numbers should serve as a wake-up call on the importance of early diagnosis and consistent treatment, adding that retention in care remains a national challenge.
“AIDS-related deaths, recorded at 21,007 in 2024, remind us of the need for renewed focus on early diagnosis, treatment adherence, and retention in care,” said Ouma.
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Steve Ireri
Steve is a senior writer with over four years of experience in digital journalism. His focus is on the showbiz and human interest stories. Emails: [email protected] , [email protected]
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