The Kenya Paediatric Research Consortium (Keprecon), through its Championing Evidence-Based Advocacy (CEBA) project for Primary Health Care (PHC) and Reproductive, Maternal, Neonatal, Child, and Adolescent Health and Nutrition (RMNCAH+N), is today holding a pivotal Knowledge Sharing Meeting with religious leaders from the Northeastern region of Kenya.
The objective of this meeting is to build the capacity of religious leaders across the region to effectively advocate for PHC and RMNCAH+N, with a particular focus on Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination. The session aims to equip participants with practical advocacy tools and techniques, enhance critical thinking, and instill the confidence necessary to implement impactful advocacy programs.
The meeting has four primary objectives:
- Raise awareness and understanding of the importance of HPV vaccination in preventing cervical cancer.
- Address and clarify cultural and religious concerns surrounding the HPV vaccine to foster greater community acceptance.
- Empower religious leaders to serve as key advocates for HPV vaccine uptake within their counties.
- Reinforce policy acceptance and promote enhanced local funding for the broader RMNCAH+N program.
This high-level forum is honored to host a distinguished delegation, including the Deputy Governor of Mandera, the First Ladies of Wajir and Isiolo Counties, as well as senior officials from county health departments. Most notably, there is a strong presence of religious leaders from across the region, including representation from SUPKEM (Supreme Council of Kenya Muslims).
Keprecon, through the CEBA project, has identified inequity and lack of information as key challenges affecting RMNCAH+N outcomes in the Northeastern region. Many communities remain underserved due to insufficient access to accurate health information. This knowledge sharing session is designed to bridge that gap—ensuring that those with information can share it with influential advocates who can shape opinions and mobilize change.
Local leaders have reported alarmingly low immunization rates for both routine and HPV vaccines. By engaging and educating trusted religious figures, this session aims to initiate a transformative ripple effect across communities—enabling leaders to dispel myths, address resistance, and lead with evidence-based advocacy.