Kenya: Govt Targets HIV, Teenage Pregnancies in Youth Health Push

Nairobi — The Kenyan government has intensified efforts to combat new HIV infections, teenage pregnancies, and sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV), which continue to jeopardize the health, education, and future of young people. Principal Secretary for Medical Services Ouma Oluga highlighted the interconnectedness of these issues and the need for a unified response from the health sector, schools, families, communities, and government agencies.

The first lady, Rachel Ruto, hosted a mentorship and advocacy event at Mawego Technical Training Institute in Homa Bay County, supported by the Voice of Children Initiative, an initiative of the Office of the First Lady through the Organisation of African First Ladies for Development. Oluga emphasized the critical importance of addressing these challenges to the government's Universal Health Coverage agenda, especially in communities with a large young population.

In Homa Bay, where 65% of residents are under 24, the government aims to bolster health, protection, and reproductive health services tailored to adolescents' needs. Community Health Promoters will identify at-risk youth and connect them to essential services, including HIV prevention, testing, sexual and reproductive health services, maternal healthcare, and support for survivors of SGBV.

The Social Health Authority will also alleviate financial barriers to maternal healthcare for pregnant adolescents. Oluga stressed the importance of collaboration among healthcare providers, educational institutions, families, and communities to shield children from violence and exploitation while ensuring they remain in school.

He encouraged young people to access accurate health information and timely medical and psychosocial support. The Voice of Children Initiative aims to amplify the voices of adolescents and young people and foster dialogue between stakeholders to address challenges affecting their health, safety, and future. The government committed to strengthening preventive and community-based interventions to improve health outcomes among adolescents.