The Kenwa support group in the Korogocho slum in Nairobi meets regularly, providing advice, information and basic essentials to those in need. Here are what some of its members say:

Phylis Omtondo: “I used to be very sick and down and I used to feel I would not be able to discuss things. But Kenwa has helped me be uplifted.

“They give me food, advice, medical support and the fellowship of being together with the rest of the people. I got uplifted and was helped, especially with a lot of advice. I am a better person. I am strong, as you can see.”

Charity Wanjero: “I used to be very sick and down. I started coming to Kenwa and I started feeling like my life had begun to change.

"I started getting less sad and got rid of stress. Kenwa has really been of help. If I lacked food, we were able to access food here, and we have continued to adhere to our drugs.

“Kenwa has been a great support to us. Now I am strong and now I can declare I am not sick, I can do business as usual.”

Ann Waironu: “I have five children and three grandchildren. I am happy. I have known my status for 15 years and when Kenwa came here, Asunta really changed my life.

Asunta told me not to commit suicide. And when I gave birth to my child, even though the child is HIV positive, you would not know she is sick.

“If you come from your house to get a counsellor here, you will always get one; we used to get lunch here; and we can live with our families.

“The virus need not naturally kill you – it depends. I have got education and employment. As long as you adhere to the lessons and training, you can continue with your life.”

Gavin Aitchison travelled to Kenya with Christian Aid, to witness the charity's work with HIV victims and to meet those on the front-line in the fight against the virus.

York Press: Christian Aid logo

• Kenwa is supported by the Anglican Church of Kenya’s development services arm, which is part-funded by Christian Aid. This year, Christian Aid’s Christmas appeal is focused on HIV, marking the 30th anniversary of the discovery of the virus.

If you would like to donate to the appeal, or would like to find out more about Christian Aid's work on health and HIV, visit christianaid.org.uk/christmas or call 0845 7000 300.