KBC Radio journalist Millicent Kubai scooped the overall tittle at the inaugural Voices of impact HIV & STIs reporting media awards 2026 organised by AHF Kenya.
Kubai’s radio feature story titled ‘ Life Beyond the Diagnosis’ saw her win both the grand title accompanied by a cash reward of Ksh 500,000, as well as emerging as the best in the Radio Journalism category.
“I am happy to emerge as the winner; you know that emerging as the winner out of 99 entries is no mean feat. First, I thank KBC for giving me a platform to highlight my voice on the challenges facing Kenyans living with HIV in telling my story. I will invest the money and use the rest to produce more episodes. “Said elated Kubai
Life beyond the diagnosis radio feature is a compelling story on how one should cope with life after a positive HIV test diagnosis, as well as coping with the stigma associated with it in society, and sheds light on hope.
“I did Life beyond diagnosis to shed light on what goes on when one goes to the VCT center and tests positive, with many shying away from tests for fear of stigma, while others don’t know how to live with the disease after testing positive.
It was also found that many women go for tests, while many shy off and instead keep on spreading the virus.” she added
Her story emerged the best with a score of 117.9 out of the possible 140 points and
According to the award’s jury, a total of 99 entries were shortlisted in the seven categories ranging from Print, digital, TV and Radio Journalism.
The award aims to recognize and reward journalists who excel at telling stories that bring real experiences to life and deepen public understanding of complex issues associated with HIV.
In addition to the annual awards, AHF Kenya provides grants to journalists to support their storytelling about HIV, including prevention, testing, and the use of ARVs.
According to the National Syndemic Disease Control Council statistics, at least 1.48 million Kenyans are living with HIV, with an alarm over the rising infection rate of about 55% among the youth, despite the overall prevalence rate dropping this year.
