Background:
Kenya faces a high adolescent fertility rate, with 1 in 5 girls aged 15–19 having begun childbearing. In Kamukunji Sub-County alone, adolescent pregnancies rose from 1,537 in 2017 to 2,323 in 2018. Young people are often excluded from sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) services due to stigma, misinformation, and poor provider attitudes. Health workers may lack training in youth-friendly care, while adolescents fear judgment or confidentiality breaches. These barriers contribute to school dropouts, unsafe abortions, and increased HIV/STI risks.

About the project:
This project aimed to increase contraceptive uptake among AYPs by addressing both demand- and supply-side barriers. The team trained 120 healthcare providers in youth-friendly SRHR service delivery, enabling them to sensitise peers in their facilities. Sixty-six peer mentors were also trained to engage AYPs at the community level. Integrated outreaches, health talks, community dialogues, and entertainment-based education were conducted in clinics and local spaces. Partnerships with NGOs, community-based organisations, and the county government ensured strong implementation and sustainability planning.

Results:
Between November 2019 and April 2020, contraceptive uptake increased significantly among AYPs. In comparison to the same period the previous year, services for adolescents aged 10–14 grew by 98%, and for those aged 15–24 by 59%. The project successfully strengthened health systems and empowered youth to make informed SRH decisions. Community engagement and feedback loops created accountability and trust between providers and AYPs, paving the way for sustained access and youth empowerment.