Makueni Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr. Speaking during the burial of former United Nations employee Florence Kelly Mutiso in Tulimani, Musoa on January 31, 2026. Photo by Gvrns Press. 
By Andrew Mbuva
Makueni Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr. has voiced concern over the withdrawal of USAID programmes from Kenya, warning that the abrupt transition is already undermining HIV prevention and control efforts.
Speaking during the burial of former United Nations employee Florence Kelly Mutiso in Tulimani, Musoa, where he joined family and friends in mourning, the Governor said USAID-supported programmes had played a critical role in strengthening healthcare delivery in Makueni County and across the country. He noted that emerging data now points to worrying trends following the agency’s exit.
Governor Mutula revealed that new HIV infections are on the rise in the county, with Mbooni Sub-County recording the highest number of new transmissions. He urged residents—particularly young people—to take personal responsibility and play an active role in reversing the trend.
“This is a serious warning. We must act decisively to bring these numbers down, especially among the youth,” the Governor said.
Mourners paid glowing tribute to Florence Mutiso, describing her as gentle, gracious, and deeply compassionate. Her former colleagues remembered her as a generous and supportive professional whose work emphasized the value of data-driven decision-making.
Governor Mutula noted that her legacy serves as a reminder of the importance of evidence-based policies, especially as counties grapple with growing public health challenges in the wake of the withdrawal of key development partners.
