The Kenya Paediatric Research Consortium (Keprecon), through its Championing Evidence-Based Advocacy (CEBA) initiative for Primary Health Care (PHC) and Reproductive, Maternal, Neonatal, Child, and Adolescent Health and Nutrition (RMNCAH+N), is today holding a high-impact knowledge-sharing meeting with religious leaders from the Northeastern region.
The objective of this convening is to equip religious leaders with evidence-based knowledge and practical advocacy tools to promote the uptake of the HPV vaccine, a crucial intervention in the prevention of cervical cancer.
Four Key Aims of the Meeting:
- Enhance awareness of HPV vaccination as a critical measure to prevent cervical cancer.
- Address religious and cultural concerns that may hinder vaccine acceptance within communities.
- Strengthen the role of religious leaders as vocal and trusted champions for public health initiatives in their counties.
- Promote local ownership and funding for RMNCAH+N programs to ensure sustainability.
The session has drawn an impressive and influential audience, including religious leaders from across the region, senior county health officials, and top political leadership — among them, the Deputy Governor of Mandera and the First Ladies of Wajir and Isiolo Counties. Representatives from faith-based organizations, including SUPKEM, are also in attendance.
According to Keprecon, the low uptake of HPV and routine immunization in the Northeastern region is largely driven by limited access to information and misconceptions. By equipping religious leaders — who hold significant influence in their communities — with the right knowledge, the CEBA project hopes to bridge the gap between science and belief, ultimately boosting vaccine confidence and acceptance.
“This session is a turning point,” said a Keprecon representative. “When leaders are informed, they can help dispel myths, break down cultural barriers, and mobilize their communities to embrace lifesaving interventions like the HPV vaccine.”
Keprecon remains committed to working hand-in-hand with local leadership to ensure equity, improve health outcomes, and enhance community-led health advocacy across the region.