Abstract:
Voluntary Counseling and Testing (VCT) is important in controlling the spread of HIV/AIDS especially
among the Youths. The aim of the study was to determine the extent, to assess the level of
awareness and to describe the Youths’ attitude towards VCT Service Utilization in Kapsabet Division,
Nandi Central District from 1st February to 30th April 2013. A cross-sectional descriptive study
was carried out among male and female Youths aged 18 - 34 years who were selected by convenience
sampling, using Quantitative and Qualitative methods of data collection with mean age of 26
years. The study found that 52% of Youths had visited VCT and the majority was aware about VCT
through print media, TV/radio and IEC materials. Forth-six percent (46%) said Post-Counseling
was poor. Seventy seven (77%) highlighted various challenges i.e. most VCT centers were openly
located within the hospital and user fee Ksh. 20 was charged. The study also found that there was
high level of awareness but slightly low utilization of VCT Services with only 52% having tested.
Posters in VCT rooms were stigmatizing and this could have influenced their low utilization of
VCT Services. Therefore there is need for dialogue with policy-makers, Youths and Stakeholders
in regards to changing strategy for future efforts to increase the uptake of services among the
Youths.
