HIV/AIDS and the commercial agricultural sector of Kenya : Impact, Vulnerability, Susceptibility and Coping Strategies

Abstract

Findings of the present study reveal that the commercial agricultural sector of Kenya is facing a severe social and economic crisis due to the impact of HIV and AIDS. Protracted morbidity and mortality are costing the industry financially, economically, and socially (including loss of skilled and experienced labour). For agro-estates to remain viable businesses, it is necessary and urgent to approach the epidemic with the seriousness it deserves. This includes well-elaborated prevention programmes and concerted mitigation strategies at company level, in collaboration with other sectors of the economy including the government, NGOs, and civil society.