Description
Background
Kenya faces a dual burden of adolescent pregnancy and rising non-communicable diseases (NCDs). One in five girls aged 15–19 has been pregnant or given birth (KDHS 2022), with Trans-Nzoia County reporting 18%—above the national average. Concurrently, NCDs account for 39% of all deaths and 50% of hospital admissions nationally (MOH, 2023). Saboti Primary Care Network (PCN) recorded pregnancy rates as high as 23%. Despite ongoing adolescent health efforts, integration of SRHR and NCD prevention into PHC remains limited. This initiative aligns with Kenya’s NCD Prevention and Control Strategy (2021–2025) and Adolescent SRH Policy (2022).
Objective
To reduce adolescent pregnancy in Saboti PCN from 23% to below 15%, while strengthening girls’ agency over their SRHR and introducing early NCD prevention within PHC.
Methodology
Through a multisectoral partnership led by the County Department of Health and USAID AMPATH Uzima, 13 secondary schools reached 19,687 students with messaging on the Triple Threat (HIV, pregnancy, GBV), menstrual hygiene, and NCD risk factors. Seven PHC facilities created “Adolescent Days” and launched Binti Kwa Binti peer groups for open dialogue on SRHR and NCDs. Community outreach included Mother-to-Mother groups and village forums.
Results
371 adolescents were enrolled through ANC/PNC. Of these, 198 had skilled deliveries, 174 received contraceptives, and 89 were reintegrated into school. 244 girls were screened for NCD risk; 19% required follow-up. Pregnancy dropped to 14% by January 2025.
Conclusion
This integrated PHC approach shows promise in addressing SRHR and NCDs among adolescents. It is scalable, aligns with Kenya’s national strategies, and contributes to UHC and Triple Threat reduction by 2030
| Country | Kenya |
|---|---|
| Organization | Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) |
| Position | Sub-County Reproductive Maternal Neonatal Child Adolescent Health Coordinator |
| Received a Grant? | No |
