Rafiki Centre Transitions Youth to Adult Care
The MTRH Rafiki Centre of Excellence in Adolescent Health bid farewell to the 2025 cohort of young adults transitioning to the adult modules at the AMPATH Centre. The PEPFAR-supported clinic, known for its adolescent-friendly services, provides a safe space where adolescents and young people (AYP) living with HIV not only access treatment but also gain life skills and enjoy activities such as dancing and playing chess.
Transition marks a critical milestone in HIV care. While the transition age is not fixed, readiness is key. At this stage, youth begin attending their clinical appointments in the adult modules.
Speaking during the ceremony, Kelvin Ngesa, Rafiki Clinic in-charge, reminded the youth of the importance of staying consistent with treatment. “Strive for and maintain suppression. Don’t trip on your treatment. Remember, we are not chasing you away; Rafiki remains your home. Even as you take your appointments at the (adult) modules, feel free to return and take part in social activities,” he said. He assured them that the adult modules are welcoming and support groups (PSSG) will help ease their transition.
Dr. Douglas Gaitho, chief technical officer of the USAID AMPATH Uzima Program, emphasized the opportunities that good health opens up: “As young people, put yourselves out there. Opportunities exist, but people will only know your potential if you speak up. Treatment is important because it allows you to do anything you want. We are very proud of you, and we will walk this journey together.”
The annual transition ceremony, which hosted about 50 youth this year, also featured career guidance, networking tips and mental health counseling. Care teams from the adult modules attended to welcome the young adults and assure them of continued support.
Dr. Beatrice Jakait, deputy chief of party, applauded the resilience of the young adults, “We are proud of your accomplishments despite the challenges you’ve faced. This transition marks the point where you take responsibility not only for yourselves but also for others. Your dreams are valid—do not let your status define or limit you.”
The Rafiki Center will continue to welcome the young adults for socialization even as they attend routine appointments at the adult modules. In addition to MTRH, programs and services at the Rafiki Center are supported by AMPATH partners Mount Sinai and Indiana University as well as Government of Kenya exchequer staff.
Through PEPFAR’s support, programs such as Operation Triple Zero (OTZ) continue to empower adolescents and young people living with HIV to achieve “zero missed appointments, zero missed doses, and zero viral load,” ensuring healthier, more fulfilling futures.