Training 7,000 Religious Leaders to End HIV Stigma
INERELA+ Kenya has trained over 7,000 religious leaders from more than 3,000 congregations to promote HIV awareness, reduce stigma and support access to quality healthcare within faith communities.
Faith leaders occupy a position of extraordinary trust. When a pastor, imam or sheikh speaks, congregations listen. Recognising this, INERELA+ Kenya designed an intensive training programme to equip religious leaders with accurate information about HIV and TB, the skills to challenge stigma, and practical ways to support people living with HIV.
What the training covered
The workshops combined medical facts with theological reflection — helping leaders reconcile faith and science, and replace fear and judgement with compassion. Participants explored HIV prevention, treatment adherence, voluntary counselling and testing, nutrition, and the rights of people living with HIV.
The impact
Across counties, trained leaders have opened conversations once considered taboo. Congregations have become safe spaces where people can seek information, disclose their status without fear, and be linked to care. Stigma — long the biggest barrier to testing and treatment — is steadily giving way to acceptance and support.
Looking ahead
INERELA+ Kenya continues to expand the network, mentoring new leaders and deepening partnerships with health facilities and county governments so that every congregation can become a champion for health and dignity.
