Conference Theme: Youth Engagement Towards Development of a Regional Strategy On Adolescent and Youth Sexual and

Reproductive Health and Rights (AYSRHR) Jumuiya ya Kaunti za Pwani, Kenya.

YOUTH ENGAGEMENT MEETING REPORT

VENUE: REEF HOTEL, MOMBASA-KENYA DATE:28TH-29TH JULY 2021

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Contents
1.0 Background of the WHO/JKP AYSRH TA mechanism ................................................................................... 4

1.1 Jumuiya ya Kaunti za Pwani & Jumuiya ya Kaunti za Pwani innovation Lab (JIL) ................................................. 5

1.1.1 Jumuiya Ya Kaunti za Pwani ....................................................................................................................... 5

1.1.2 Jumuiya ya Kaunti za Pwani Innovation Lab ................................................................................................. 6

2.0 Workshop proceedings ................................................................................................................................. 6

2.1 Day one: The Pre-Conference Meeting........................................................................................................... 6

2. 2 Participants and facilitators during the evening bonding session ........................................................................ 7

2.3.0 Day Two: Youth Engagement Workshop ..................................................................................................... 8

2.3.1 Mombasa County: ..................................................................................................................................... 9

2.3.2 Kwale County: .......................................................................................................................................... 9

2.3.3 Kilifi County: ............................................................................................................................................ 9

2.3.4 Lamu County: ........................................................................................................................................... 9

2.3.5 Tana River County: ................................................................................................................................. 9

2.3.6 Taita Taveta County: ............................................................................................................................... 10

2.3.7 Workshop facilitators............................................................................................................................... 10

2.3.8 Project Partners ...................................................................................................................................... 11

2.3.9 AYSRH TA Mechanism proposed activities ............................................................................................... 12

3.0 Presentations ............................................................................................................................................. 12

The following are some of the AYSRH services offered in various JKP healthcare service centers: ........................... 14

4.1.0 SWOT ANALYSIS ON AYSRHR .......................................................................................................... 15

4.1.2 Strengths ................................................................................................................................................ 15

4.1.3 Weaknesses ............................................................................................................................................ 15

4.1.4 Opportunities ......................................................................................................................................... 16

4.1.5 Threats ................................................................................................................................................... 16

4.2.0 LAMU COUNTY.................................................................................................................................... 16

4.2.1 Key issues relating to AYSRHR ............................................................................................................. 16

4.2.2 Strength.................................................................................................................................................. 16

4.2.3 Weakness ............................................................................................................................................... 17

4.2.4 Opportunities ......................................................................................................................................... 17

4.2.5 Threats ................................................................................................................................................... 17

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4.3.0 KILIFI COUNTY .................................................................................................................................... 17

4.3.1 Key issues relating to AYSRHR ............................................................................................................. 17

4.3.2 Strength.............................................................................................................................................. 17

4.3.3 Weakness ........................................................................................................................................... 18

4.3.4 Opportunities ..................................................................................................................................... 18

4.3.5 Threats ............................................................................................................................................... 18

4.3.0 MOMBASA COUNTY ............................................................................................................................ 19

4.3.2 Strengths ............................................................................................................................................ 19

4.3.3 Weaknesses ........................................................................................................................................ 19

4.3.4 Opportunities ..................................................................................................................................... 19

4.3.5 Threats ............................................................................................................................................... 20

4.4.0 TANA RIVER COUNTY ......................................................................................................................... 20

4.4.1 Key issues relating to AYSRHR ............................................................................................................. 20

4.4.2 Strength.............................................................................................................................................. 20

4.4.3 Weaknesses ........................................................................................................................................ 20

4.4.4 Opportunities ..................................................................................................................................... 21

4.4.5 Threats ............................................................................................................................................... 21

4.5.0 TAITA TAVETA COUNTY ..................................................................................................................... 21

4.5.1. Key issues relating to AYSRHR............................................................................................................ 21

4.5.2 Strength.............................................................................................................................................. 21

4.5.3 Weakness ........................................................................................................................................... 22

4.5.4 Opportunities ..................................................................................................................................... 22

4.5.5 Threats ............................................................................................................................................... 22

5.0.0 APPENDICES ......................................................................................................................................... 23

APPENDIX 5.1: PROFILES FOR THE JKP PROJECT TEAM .................................................................................... 23

Dr. Anisa Ahmed Omar –Technical Lead WHO/JKP AYSRHR PROJECT........................................................... 24

Dr. FLAURA KIDERE Researcher, Trainer & Project Management expert .......................................................... 24

APPENDIX 5.2: PROFILES FOR THE JIL AYSRH YOUTH CHAMPIONS ......................................................... 25

APPENDIX 5. 3: AGENDA FOR THE YOUTH ENGAGEMENT WORKSHOP .................................................. 29

APPENDIX 5.5 WAY FORWARD ON AYSRHR MATTERS IN JKP .................................................................... 1

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1.0 Background of the WHO/JKP AYSRH TA mechanism
Globally, adolescents and Young People (AYPs) represent a major demographic and social-economic force,
and are a major influence of public health trends. According to the 2019 Kenya Population and Housing
Census (KPHC), adolescents aged 10-19 years constitute about 24.5% of the population, up from 23.8% a
decade before. The counties that comprise the JKP coastal region have an overall population of 4.3 million
with about 1 million adolescents. Adolescents face severe challenges to their lives and general well-being.
Globally there are 44 births per 1000 to girls aged 15-19 years per year, half of the mental health disorders in
adulthood start by age 14 but most cases are undetected and treated. They are vulnerable to early marriages/
unintended pregnancies, unsafe abortion, sexual violence, mental health, psychosocial disorders, and
reproductive tract infections including sexually transmitted infections/HIV. Adolescents and young people
represent a significant dividend for social and economic development of the country if the necessary
investments are made to make them healthy and productive, and especially in sexual and reproductive
health.

Sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) are a corner stone of young people’s transition to
adulthood, influencing outcomes for both adolescents and youths across a range of fronts. Adolescent
pregnancies are currently a major sexual and reproductive health concern in Kenya with the Coastal counties
having especially high rates (Mombasa, Kwale, Tana River, Lamu and Taita Taveta). The highest, Tana River
is at 28.2% compared to 18.1% nationally (15-19 years, KDHS 2014). Additionally, adolescents’ knowledge
of family planning is much lower among youths in the Coastal counties compared to the national average.
While contraceptive prevalence rate (CPR) has been on the rise among sexually active young women, unmet
need for contraception nationally remains high at 23% for 15-17 year olds and 17.5% for 15-49 year olds
(KDHS, 2014). For Kenya Coastal counties, the CPR in 15-49 year olds is 43.9% compared to 58%
nationally; and, in sexually active unmarried women, national data show contraception use is 50.1% in those
aged 15-19 vs 65.4% for 15-49 (KDHS, 2014). This situation is attributable to social and cultural norms as
well as low understanding of reproductive health and rights by AYPs within the region. AYPs’ lack of
comprehensive and age appropriate sexual and reproductive health education creates the single and greatest
barrier towards access and utilization of contraception. In addition, Covid-19 related fear to access health
services has been reported as an extra barrier (PMA2020). Moreover, appropriate structures, resources and
monitoring and evaluation mechanism to support AYP initiatives seem to be wanting in most regions
including within the Jumuiya ya Kaunti za Pwani region.

Jumuiya ya Kaunti Za Pwani (JKP) is a regional economic development organization representing Kenya’s six
coastal counties (Mombasa, Kwale, Kilifi, Tana River, Lamu and Taita Taveta. The JKP Secretariat in
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collaboration with the three local Universities, Technical University of Mombasa, Pwani University and Taita
Taveta University is mandated to coordinate cross-cutting economic development activities of the six
counties, policy harmonization, promotion of the regional assets and investments. Towards implementation
of the regional economic blueprint (Jumuiya 2030), Health Systems strengthening and support for Universal
Health care (UHC) are critical flagship programs. In this regard, the Jumuiya Health Sector Working
(SWG) led by the Six Counties’ Executives through the JKP Secretariat sought WHO-Technical Assistance
to address the regional gaps that AYP face in accessing quality information, knowledge regarding life skills,
and access to youth friendly health services at the community level.

1.1 Jumuiya ya Kaunti za Pwani & Jumuiya ya Kaunti za Pwani innovation Lab
(JIL)

1.1.1 Jumuiya Ya Kaunti za Pwani

Jumuiya ya Kaunti za Pwani is a regional economic development organization representing Kenya’s six
coastal counties. The JKP Secretariat, in collaboration with three local universities (the Technical University
of Mombasa, Pwani University, and Taita Taveta University), is mandated to coordinated cross-cutting
economic development activities, including policy harmonization and promotion of regional assets and
investments. Health systems strengthening and universal health care are critical flagship programs within the
regional economic blueprint (Jumuiya 2030).

The JKP in partnership with the Aga Khan University submitted a joint request to the World Health
Organization (WHO) for Technical Assistance (TA) Mechanism to address; the Kenya coastal counties’ gap
regarding Adolescent, Youth, Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights (AYSRHR). The main purpose of the
youth engagement workshop as well as AYSRH TA mechanism /project is to improve equitable access to
quality SRH information and services for adolescents and young people in Kenya’s six coastal counties as well
as advance Youth leadership and participation.

It is specifically envisioned that the TA will contribute to the following specific objectives:

i. Sustainable, high-impact, evidence-based interventions for development, investment and

implementation of the counties’ strategic plans for adolescents and young people
ii. Improved knowledge and skills related to SRH among adolescents and young people
iii. Increased outreach services to vulnerable and marginalized adolescents and young people
iv. Enhanced youth leadership and participation

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1.1.2 Jumuiya ya Kaunti za Pwani Innovation Lab
The Jumuiya Innovation Lab works with youths in various fields within the coastal region in order to mentor
and enhance youth leadership in different programs including but not limited to AYSRH, Ubuntu Leadership
program as well as Entrepreneurship and Innovation. One of the core activities of JIL is to identify skill gaps
as well as providing appropriate training skills in order to bridge existing gaps within the coastal economic
block. The Jumuiya innovation Lab (JIL) has been instrumental in enhancing the acceleration of social and
economic development of the region as well as enhanced effectiveness and efficiency in managing various
JKP projects. One of the key JIL objectives that is crucial for the AYSRHR TA mechanism is as follows:
1.Provision of mentorship and coaching for Youths and adolescents within the Jumuiya ya Kaunti za Pwani
2. Hosting and providing oversight for implementation of Trainings programs to targeted Youths within the
region

2.0 Workshop proceedings

2.1 Day one: The Pre-Conference Meeting

The Pre conference meeting was held on Wednesday, July 28, 2021, starting 7:30 p.m., at Reef Hotel,
Mombasa-Kenya. This was after the arrival of the youth champions from their various counties and having
their dinner. Dr. Flaura Kidere, the Project Coordinator from Pwani University started the evening meeting
by offering her welcoming remarks, she also congratulated the participants for their selection into the project
as youth champions representing the rest of the youths in their various counties. She then turned the meeting
over to Mr. Isaac Kyalo, a facilitator who took the participants through a moment of self-introduction. The
participants introduced themselves by stating the role they play in their respective counties in matters
relating to AYSRH. The participants comprised of six males and six females who are JIL Youths AYSRH
program representatives from the six counties of the coastal region namely Mombasa, Kilifi, Kwale, Taita-
Taveta, Tana River and Lamu.

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2. 2 Participants and facilitators during the evening bonding session
The meeting brought together young men and women from the six counties of the Coastal Region under the
in order to ready the ground for the TA mechanism. This presented opportunity for young people to
contribute to the discussion on Adolescent, Youth Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights (AYSRHR) in the
coastal region. During the evening bonding meeting the youth champions opened up to the challenges being
faced by adolescents and youths in accessing AYSRH services in an informal setting as well as community in
general. They also provided details regarding the roles they have been playing to champion this course. Some
of the youth champions shared their moving stories arising from their personal life experiences.

“I come from Tana River county in a community that practices Female Genital Mutilation (FGM/C)
with a prevalence of almost 80%. This youth engagement meeting is very valuable to me because I
will be able to learn and contribute on the prioritization of FGM/C and all other sexual reproductive
health and rights (SRHR) issues that should be part of the AYSRH agenda. I went through female
genital mutilation at the tender age of 9 years and I want every girl in my county to feel safe — safer
than I was when I was 9”.

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‘We the young people in attendance at the this meeting come from different cultures, backgrounds
and communities, and this brings into perspective the struggles adolescents and youths, especially
women and girls go through across the coastal region of Kenya when it comes to sexual and
reproductive health and rights. We believe that the workshop will be engaging and a major learning
experience for all of us’.

‘Together with other youth champions working to advocate for improved AYSRHR in the region, we
are all eager and excited to learn more from each other as well as our personal experiences’.

Some of the other discussion points that came out of this evening sessions included the need to ensure that
AYPs access sexual and reproductive health education, role of media in AYSRHR advocacy, barriers to
AYSRHR, engaging with clan elders, the role of religious leaders and political leaders as well as the role of
women, girls and men in matters of AYSRHR. It was agreed that AYSRHR is a collective youth action, to
reach, influence and provide an opportunity to celebrate the change that is already taking place, share what
has worked, amplify success, and inspire others through personal experience. The team further explored and
discussed what needs to be done to show the commitment of young people in the counties and the JKP
region in championing the SRHR course.

One of the key messages highlighted during the preconference meeting was the need for youth engagement
and involvement if AYSRH programs are to succeed. This message was important because youth are the
future leaders and should be at the forefront in fighting against unsafe practices that harm and deny them the
potential to achieve optimum SRHR. The Youth engagement workshop affirmed the importance of youth
leadership especially where youth agenda is concerned. The team was able to identify youth change agents
who can be engaged in advocacy, capacity building and mentorship. The JIL AYSRH youths would also be
instrumental in discussing issues that affect them in their respective counties, finding innovative solutions to
some of the emerging SRH problems and sharing experiences across the region.

The need for youth to continue working with cultural and religious leaders in advocating for SRHR was also
emphasized in the pre workshop meeting that evening. The meeting closed with a word of prayer at 10.00
pm

2.3.0 Day Two: Youth Engagement Workshop

The meeting started with registration of participants up to 8.30 am. This was followed by a period of self-
introduction. The following youths from six Counties in the Coast introduced themselves as per their
counties
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2.3.1 Mombasa County:
i. Maimuna Siraj is a youth from Mombasa County. She holds a Diploma in Business Management.
Currently she works as a youth advocate on matter of reproductive health and her passion is to see
change in the community.
ii. Alex Chivatsi Chai is also a youth from Mombasa County and a peer educator. He is a youth
advocate who is passionate about change in the community. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in
Commerce
iii. Douglas Mboga is a youth from Mombasa County too who holds a Degree in Management
Science. He is also passionate about social change through economic development.

2.3.2 Kwale County:

i. Mwanaamina Fakii is a journalist, Menstrual Hygiene Management Trainer and Champion. She is
from Kwale County and she is passionate about educating young girls on sexual health and also to
see that young youths are educated on matter of Sexual reproductive health and rights
ii. Mrinzi Nyundo Mrinzi is also a journalist from Kwale County, Male Menstrual Hygiene
Champion as well as AYSRHR advocate.

2.3.3 Kilifi County:

i. Evelyne Mulwa is from Kilifi County. She holds a Bachelor Degree in Education. A teacher by
profession, she has experience in youth peer education and also advocating on issues of Adolescents
Youth Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights.

ii. Eliezer Epukulu is a youth from Kilifi County and a degree holder in Psychology. He has
experience on matter of quality assurance and his passion to educate the young people.

2.3.4 Lamu County:

i. Tima Ahmed Bakari is a youth from Lamu County she is a secretary by profession.
ii. Naim Kari Mohamed has a bachelor degree in Commerce. He is a youth leader and has been
advocating against early marriages and drug abuse in Lamu County. Through his efforts most of the
girls are now in school his passion is to see gender equality in matters of education by making sure
girls go to school.

2.3.5 Tana River County:

i. John Maneno is a youth from Tana River County he has a Diploma in Community Development.
He is a youth leader and has been handling issues on drugs and teenage pregnancy.
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 ii. Nastehea Abubakr is a young woman from Tana River who never furthered her education due
to socioeconomic and cultural barriers. She is a founder of a CBO that has been advocating against
Female Genital Mutilation in the County.

2.3.6 Taita Taveta County:

i. Jennifer Njoli is a youth from Taita Taveta. She has a Diploma in Social Work and Mental Health
and she has been advocating on AYSRHR and accountability in county resources.
ii. Peter Mwashigadi is a Youth from Taita Taveta. He has a Diploma in Sociology and
Management Planning. He has initiated strong youth networks in Taita Taveta County and also
advocating on issues of youths and adolescents.

2.3.7 Workshop facilitators

The participants’ introduction was followed by self-introduction of the facilitators. This included their Bio –
data, role played in AYSRH within the region, their Bio data is shown in appendix 5.1. Thereafter, the
project coordinator, Dr. Flaura informed participants on the AYSRH TA mechanism objective so as to set
the tone for the TA mechanism in the six Jumuiya ya Kaunti za Pwani. She later invited Dr. Anisa Omar,
who is the Technical Lead for the TA Mechanism who gave details regarding the project background and
objectives. In her opening remarks, Dr. Anisa elaborated the fact that AYSRHR has been anchored in the
constitution and therefore a become a fundamental right. She also took participants through reasons why
Adolescents Youth Sexual Reproductive Health Rights are important. She reminded members how these
vices have enhanced the problem of teenage pregnancy and school dropout among the girls and the need for
AYSRHR.

Dr. Anisa also observed that the COVID 19 pandemic has worsened the AYSRH challenges leading to an
increase in cases of gender based violence. She pointed out at some of the root causes for early pregnancies
and rape which include poverty as well as diminished parental responsibility. She later took the participants
through a moment of reflection on what could be done to stop such vices in the Community. Some of the
suggestions made from the participants include:
i. The need to expand youth access to AYSRHR information in both rural and urban setups.
ii. The need to advocate for Youth-Friendly-Services and clinics so as to enable youth to freely access
services and information on AYSRHR
iii. The need to include sexual health and reproductive health education in the school curriculum
iv. The need to engage the community and religious leaders on topics regarding AYSRHR

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Also, Dr. Anisa reiterated the project background as well as TA mechanism objectives and the expected
deliverables. Participants were informed that in the year 2019, WHO SRH/HRP established the Adolescent
and Youth Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (AYSRHR) Technical Assistance (TA) Coordination
Mechanism, as part of the FP Accelerator Project. The objective of this mechanism is to deliver TA that
countries need for designing, implementing, monitoring, reviewing and documenting their AYSRHR
programs. Through this mechanism it is anticipated that the counties will benefit from TA that is
i. Timely, through a mechanism that can respond in a punctual manner
ii. Effective – by involving individuals with the right technical and practical experience in a similar
context, with back-up from evidence-based programme-support tools
iii. Efficient – by working with experts located as close as possible to the respective country, using
methods that are effective and consider available resources
i. Country oriented perspective, which is in line with national development agenda and the Sustainable
Development Goals
Dr. Anisa also reiterated the reasons for initiating the WHO JKP TA mechanism, these included
ii. High increase in adolescent pregnancy has become a major concern in Kenya and the coastal counties
iii. High rates of teenage pregnancies as compared to the rest of the country
i. Higher rates of unmet need for contraception for all women of reproductive age (43.9% compared
to 58% nationally) within the JKP region
ii. Low levels of understanding about contraception within the JKP region as compared to the national
average.
iii. Plus, many other regional unmet needs in AYSRHR

2.3.8 Project Partners

The project partners for the project include
i. World Health Organization (WHO)
ii. Jumuiya ya Kaunti za Pwani (JKP)-Pwani University and the six coastal counties
iii. Aga Khan Foundation, Technical Assistants
iv. Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation (EGPAF), Technical assistants

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2.3.9 AYSRH TA Mechanism proposed activities
Participants were clearly informed about the proposed activities and the importance of ensuring timely, effective
and efficient delivery of the activities

i. Task 1: Facilitation of youth engagement in the technical assistance process, leveraging the existing
JKP Innovation Lab.
ii. Task 2: Organization of an inception meeting to bring the county stakeholders and technical
assistance team together
iii. Task 3: Support to collect documents/information from counties for the desk review and
stakeholder/resource mapping through liaising with the county stakeholders.
iv. Task 4: Organization of site visits (facilities and communities) for the Aga Khan University and the
Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation teams, as one component of the data collection process
that will feed into the development of the regional strategy on AYSRHR.

The project expected deliverables include the following

i. Deliverable 1: A report of what was done to ensure meaningful youth engagement in the technical
assistance, including the Innovation Lab preparatory workshop.
ii. Deliverable 2: An agenda, list of participants, and report of the inception meeting, including
consensus on timelines, data/documents to be synthesized by counties and process for data
collection (including site visits).
iii. Deliverable 3: A compilation of relevant documents/information from the counties, including a
strategy for updating the repository as possible/necessary.
iv. Deliverable 4: Successful organization of county site visits to facilities and communities.

3.0 Presentations
One of the facilitators, Mr. Isaac Kyalo took the participants through a session on context, barriers and scope
in Adolescents Youth Sexual Reproductive Health Rights. This was followed by group discussion which was
led by Dr. Anisa Omar and Dr. Flaura Kidere

3.1 Discussion on AYSRH Context in Kenya

The following are some of the issues that were raised during the discussion

i. Youthful population has implications on the social, economic and political agenda of the country.

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 ii. A young population provides opportunities for the country’s development, especially if the right
investments are made towards attainment of educational and health goals, including all round
preparation for responsible adulthood

iii. AYSRH Response requires multi-sectoral and integrated approach from all sectors of government,
development partners and other stakeholders for the country to attain the Vision 2030

iv. Kenya has a high prevalence of adolescent pregnancy and low access to and use of adolescent sexual
reproductive health services.

v. Despite the enactment of evidence-based policies to address this problem, adolescents continue to
face health problems and barriers to adolescent sexual reproductive health information and services.

vi. Barriers of access to sexual and reproductive health services and information include negative health
workers’ attitudes, distance to the health facility, unaffordable cost of services, negative social
cultural influences, lack of privacy and confidentiality.

3.2 Sexual, Reproductive Health and Rights

The technical lead Dr. Anisa took members through the SRHR highlights and reiterated that this aspect
entails the need to exercise control over one’s sexual and reproductive health. She informed members that

i. Reproductive health is a component of overall health, throughout the life cycle, for both
men and women;

ii. Reproductive decision-making, including voluntary choice in marriage, family formation

and determination of the number, timing and spacing of one’s children and the right to have
access to the information and means is needed to exercise voluntary choice

iii. It emphasizes on need for equality and equity for men and women, to enable individuals to
make free and informed choices in all spheres of life, free from discrimination based on
gender; and

iv. It stresses on Sexual and reproductive security, including freedom from sexual violence and
coercion, and the right to privacy

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3.3 AYSRHR services in Jumuiya ya Kaunti za Pwani

The following are some of the AYSRH services offered in various JKP healthcare service centers:

i. Information and counselling on sexual and reproductive health matters

ii. Promotion of healthy sexual behaviors
iii. Family planning information, counselling and methods of contraception (including
emergency contraceptive methods)
iv. Promotion and provision of contraceptives
v. Testing and counselling services for pregnancy, HIV and other STIs
vi. Management of STIs
vii. Antenatal care (ANC), delivery services, postnatal care (PNC) and pregnant mother-to-
child transmission (PMTCT)
viii. Appropriate referral linkage between health facilities at different levels.

3.4 Barriers to AYSRH services

i. Structural barriers, such as laws and policies requiring parental or partner consent, distance
from facilities, costs of services and/or transportation, long wait times for services,
inconvenient hours, lack of necessary commodities at health facilities, and lack of privacy
and confidentiality.

ii. Socio cultural barriers, such as restrictive norms and stigma around adolescent and youth
sexuality; inequitable or harmful gender norms; and discrimination and judgment of
adolescents by communities, families, partners, and providers.

iii. Individual barriers, such as young people’s limited or incorrect knowledge of SRH,
including myths and misconceptions around contraception; limited self-efficacy and
individual agency; limited ability to navigate internalized social and gender norms; and
limited information about what SRH services are available and where to seek services.

The next session involved the participants getting into group discussions for their specific counties to explore
the key issues affecting AYSRHR in the county and a SWOT analysis of the current situation on natters of
AYSRHR in the county. This was followed by a plenary discussion which yielded the following information.

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4.1.0 SWOT ANALYSIS ON AYSRHR
The SWOT analysis process entailed identification of key AYSRH issues in different counties, their strengths,
weaknesses, opportunities and Threats regarding implementation of AYSRH programs. Below shown is the output of
this process

4.2.0 KWALE COUNTY

4.1.1 Key issues relating to AYSRHR

i. Teenager pregnancies

ii. Poverty

iii. Lack of substantive parental responsibility

iv. Family conflict

v. Increased number of GBV cases and especially incest

4.1.2 Strengths
i. The county government has made an effort to provide scholarships and bursaries to needy students.

ii. Elimu in Kaya has been achieved and bursaries offered.

iii. The menstrual hygiene campaign and champions initiated by the county First Lady has add an impact
in giving sanitary towels and other necessities for adolescent girls in order to proceed with education

iv. CSR from firms like Base Titanium

4.1.3 Weaknesses
i. Rescue centers are temporary - There is need to have a permanent rescue center where victims of
GBV can settle and access psychological support. So far, there's a temporary unit where victims will
be obliged to go back to where they were abused.

ii. Lack of stand-alone youth-friendly services that are focused on getting services and information
about adolescents using youth friendly language

iii. Lack of functional skill centers

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4.1.4 Opportunities
i. The school clubs in school and champion teachers can be strengthened to implement AYSRH in
every school by discuss reproductive health issues that are age specific as early age as 8 years of age.

ii. The existing temporary GBV centers in Diani and Kwale can be upgraded

iii. CSR efforts done by lobby groups like KWEA, Samba, Cavas etc. can be focused on giving
information and services on issues AYSRHR and GBV.

iv. Presence of local media like Radio Kaya can be used in giving information on issues AYSRHR and
GBV.

v. Religious groups and leaders can be used to discuss, influence and advance matters of AYSRHRs

4.1.5 Threats
i. Existing COVID 19 pandemic has led to increase in teenage pregnancy

ii. Unfavorable cultural practices e.g. early/child marriage

iii. Migration for work leaving children behind without caretakers.

4.2.0 LAMU COUNTY

4.2.1 Key issues relating to AYSRHR

i. Poverty and marginalization of communities

ii. Unfavorable social cultural beliefs and practices

iii. Illiteracy

iv. Drug abuse

4.2.2 Strength
i. Availability of community based organizations

ii. County government support on fighting drug abuse and teenage pregnancy

iii. Youth development fund

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 iv. Partners like European Union and the ongoing LAPSET project

4.2.3 Weakness
i. Poor development in many sectors like transport

ii. Lack of jobs and idleness among youths

4.2.4 Opportunities
i. Available of more CBOs

ii. Cultural and religious opportunities to support AYSRH

iii. Establishment of training centers

4.2.5 Threats
i. Covid-19 pandemic.

ii. Poor transport network

iii. Unfavorable social cultural beliefs

iv. Social economic and climate change

4.3.0 KILIFI COUNTY

4.3.1 Key issues relating to AYSRHR

i. Teenage pregnancies

ii. Diminished parental responsibility

iii. Boda boda riders

iv. Sexual gender-based violence especially incest

v. High level of illiteracy and late initiation of schooling

4.3.2 Strength
County has related policy and strategic plans on AYSRHR e.g. gender policy, menstrual hygiene policy

Availability of donor support and good support from the county government on teenager pregnancies

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programs.

4.3.3 Weakness
Poor cooperation among the young people

Lack of coordination and duplication of work among partners

Poor implementation of the policy about the young people

4.3.4 Opportunities
i. County government and donor support can be refocused towards AYSRHR implemented by the
donor

ii. Availability of a bill that will address issues of SGBV at the county

iii. Availability of professionals who are willing to undertake AYSRH initiatives

iv. Availability of scholarships and bursaries for the youths

v. Availability of youth friendly services in Mtwapa which can be expanded

vi. Continued male involvement in matters of AYSRHR

4.3.5 Threats
i. Poor social-economic status

ii. Poor implementation of the policies

iii. Misinformation about education

iv. Kangaroo courts

v. Disco matanga

vi. Drinking of mnazi

vii. Social cultural beliefs

viii. Broken marriages

ix. Drug abuse

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4.3.0 MOMBASA COUNTY
4.3.1 Key issues relating to AYSRHR

i. Highly new HIV infection among adolescents and

ii. Teenager pregnancies

iii. Inadequate availability of youth-friendly centers

iv. Drug and substance abuse very common in many areas of Mombasa.

4.3.2 Strengths
i. Plans are underway to operationalize health clubs in schools which will be used to reach out
teenagers with the information on AYSRHR

ii. Plans underway to operationalize one-stop-shop which offers youth-friendly services such as STI
screening, family planning services, CCC, PEP and PreP, menstrual hygiene management, mental
health services, preventive services for IDUs, minor treatment of ailments, psycho-social support
and support groups for young people

4.3.3 Weaknesses
i. No standalone youth friendly service points

ii. Lack of a AYSRH focal person

iii. No budget allocation by the county government on AYSRHR

4.3.4 Opportunities
i. Presence of youth champions, media personalities and CSOs supporting AYSRHR

ii. Research undertakings in AYSRHR

iii. Upcoming county support and establishment of TWG on AYSRHS matters

iv. Proposals and creation of evidence based interventions such as; - Sugar Project, My
Health My Choice, Financial capacity, Health Choice for A Better Future Family
Matters Program etc.

v. Creating youth based innovative ways to disseminate the AYRSHR information such as
moral use of theatre which also creates an employment for the youth
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4.3.5 Threats
i. Religious leaders quiet on matters on AYSRHR

ii. Political pressure for population growth

4.4.0 TANA RIVER COUNTY

4.4.1 Key issues relating to AYSRHR

i. No youth-friendly services

ii. No enough health workers to provide AYSRH services

iii. Cultural practices in favor of FGM

iv. No rescue centers to handle FGM victims and early marriage escapees.

v. Vast county which underdeveloped-long distance from social amenities

vi. No county budget specific for AYSRH services

vii. Culture does not allow sexual education and family planning services to young people

viii. Parents and youth lack information on sexual and reproductive health rights

ix. Alcoholism and drug abuse

4.4.2 Strength
Availability of county funds and programs for supporting young people

Professionals supporting AYSRH activities

4.4.3 Weaknesses
i. Pastoralist lifestyle a barrier to provision of AYSRH services

ii. Limited number of NGOs/CBOs and donors supporting AYSRH services

iii. Corruption

iv. No enough counselors.

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 4.4.4 Opportunities
i. Presence of women champions

ii. Chief and male leaders embracing reforms

4.4.5 Threats
i. Functional radio stations Tana FM and Amani FM

ii. Many volunteers

iii. Mobile clinics

iv. Social cultural beliefs.

v. ln some community, the lady is not empowered and so she is seen as an object.

vi. Famine/drought with most parents shifting their concentration to searching food

vii. Insecurity, county is an operation area, inter clan wars

viii. Youth unemployment

ix. COVID 19 pandemic

4.5.0 TAITA TAVETA COUNTY

4.5.1. Key issues relating to AYSRHR

i. Inadequate information on the contraceptives

ii. Inadequate access of contraceptives at the facilities.

iii. Inadequate medical personnel to assist young people on AYSRHS

iv. Lack of safe space / Youth friendly service centers

v. Bureaucracy at the county hospital

4.5.2 Strength
i. Existing NGOs, CSOs that implements SRHS programs

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 ii. Health professionals to offer AYSRH services available.

iii. Existing structures i.e. facilities and community based organizations.

4.5.3 Weakness
i. Weak policies implementation, no proper follow up mechanism especially when it
comes to GBV cases.

ii. Poor collection and sharing of data at all levels

4.5.4 Opportunities
i. Space available to accommodate or to facilitate youth friendly services

ii. Proper policy formulation targeting SRHS (education sector)

i. Using existing structures community health strategic initiative and VTIs to reach out the cohorts.

ii. Introduction of Peer-Child - Communication(PCC), Peer - Young People Communication (PYPC)

Peer - Parents Communication(PCC) and Parents - Parents Communication (PPC).

4.5.5 Threats
i. Political interference

ii. Religious beliefs and culture that are not supportive of AYSRH information sharing

iii. High rate of teen pregnancies

iv. lack of distribution of commodities (contraceptives)

v. Prohibit of use of contraceptives

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5.0.0 APPENDICES

APPENDIX 5.1: PROFILES FOR THE JKP PROJECT TEAM

EMMANUEL KOMBE NZAI – PROGRAM HOST, CEO/Secretary (Interim) Jumuiya ya Kaunti Za

Pwani Secretariat, Deputy Presidential Candidate, Kenya (Ekuru-Nzai 2017).

EMMANUEL KOMBE NZAI is a public policy and strategy advisor with a passion for social innovation. He
is the CEO/Secretary (Interim) Jumuiya ya Kaunti Za Pwani Secretariat at the Technical University of
Mombasa. JKP is a regional economic bloc formation of the six (6) Kenya’s coastal counties (Mombasa,
Kwale, Kilifi, Lamu, Tana River & Taita Taveta) seeking to leverage devolution for equity and shared
prosperity in the ongoing regional industrialization initiatives. He is charged with operationalizing the
Secretariat and development of the region’s economic blueprint (Jumuiya 2030).

He was the Deputy Presidential Candidate, third way Alliance, Kenya (Ekuru-Nzai 2017) and Founder/CEO
of Linkage point LTD, a Strategic Advisory and technology, company which he founded and led in
Washington DC from 2005 – 2010. As well, he was the first Executive Officer of the Vision 2030 Delivery
Secretariat where he coordinated operations of the Secretariat, flagship project implementations and
reporting to Vision 2030 Delivery Board and National Economic and Social Council and public.

Emmanuel is an experienced Executive Manager with more than 17 years of professional career in innovative
technology solutions and Management Consulting in USA; spanning in roles as, Chief Executive
Officer/Chief Information Officer and Vice President Consulting. He has served as the Vice President
Consulting Services for Venture Technologies in Alexandria Virginia and Vice President for a start-up
Investment firm, India Globalization Capital (NYSE IGC).

Emmanuel holds an MBA, Information Technology and Public Administration from Shenandoah University,
Winchester, Virginia, USA. As well, Emmanuel serves in various boards and significantly contributes to
various forums on economic transformation and innovation strategies.

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Dr. Anisa Ahmed Omar –Technical Lead WHO/JKP AYSRHR PROJECT
Dr. Anisa is a specialist pediatrician and experienced hospital administrator. She worked with Kilifi County
Government as a County Executive Committee member for health since 4 th January 2018; June 3rd 2020 she
was transferred to the Department of Culture, Gender, Youth, Sports & Social Services as the CECM. She
worked with Pathfinder International as the Deputy Chief of Party for the Afya Pwani Project and Technical
Advisor to Service Delivery since July 2016 to 31st December 2017. She previously worked with the ministry
headquarters in the department of family health as the Program manager for Adolescent health. Previously
she worked as the Kilifi County Health Director and has been the Provincial Director of Public Health and
Sanitation for the Coast Province for five years. In this capacity, Dr. Anisa has been responsible for planning,
implementation and coordination of all public health services at health Centre level, dispensary and
community including the monitoring and evaluation of all health programmers. Dr. Anisa has trained in
Health Systems Management. She has an intimate knowledge of the health services and challenges at the
Coast having worked as a medical officer throughout the Province and as the District Medical Officer of
Health in Kwale and Malindi Districts.

Dr. FLAURA KIDERE Researcher, Trainer & Project Management expert

Flaura is a Project Management expert, Researcher and Trainer with over 17 years’ experience in Project
Management, Human Resources Management, Strategy formulation, Entrepreneurship and Innovation. She
currently works as a lecturer for Pwani University where she also serves as the Chairperson for the Pwani
University’s Entrepreneurship & Innovation Hub within the Research and extension division. Her passion for
sustainable and innovative solutions enabled her to be seconded to support the coordination of Jumuiya
innovation Lab (JIL) on voluntary basis.

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Flaura is also a Social Innovator who has been instrumental in the rehabilitation of Teen-Mothers in the
coastal region where she has been supporting the development of life- skills amongst the Youths and the
adolescents amongst vulnerable communities within the coastal region. Together with the Youth groups she
mentors, she has been able to develop AYSRH training programs for Teen –Mothers within the community
and Young parents within Pwani University setting.

Flaura holds a Doctor of philosophy in Business Administration (PhD) from the University of Dar as salaam,
Tanzania, a Master of Business Management from Kenyatta University and Bachelor of Business Management
Degree from Moi University, Kenya. She has also participated in numerous professional Training and
Research Programs which have enhanced her capability in providing Innovative solutions.

Flaura has good people and organizational skills that have enabled her to successfully work in diverse multi-
cultural teams. She has also been able to mobilize and manage resources for different projects both in Kenya
and the East African Community. Her ability to manage projects successfully, formulate strategy and
monitor project implementation has seen her engaged in various projects i.e. (NGOs, Donor agency, Public
and Private sector). One of her major undertaking was the successful implementation of an East African
Community (Rwanda, Burundi, Tanzania, Uganda and Kenya) Standardization project ‘Trade promotion
through standardization’, Member of the steering committee for the development of Jumuiya ya Kaunti za
Pwani (JKP) COVID -19 online Healthcare workers program as well as supported the development of the
JKPs proposal for the WHO/TA AYSRH project.

Flaura’s ability to think innovatively has enabled her to provide solutions to various social and organizational
challenges. She has also served in various public and private Boards, committees and task forces as well as
worked in the public sector as an Administrator/Human resources officer. Flaura has previously been
recognized as an effective mentor under the world Bank/KEPSA private sector Youth mentorship project.
Her present interest is in supporting projects focusing on enhancing the wellbeing of Youths and adolescents
amongst vulnerable communities.

APPENDIX 5.2: PROFILES FOR THE JIL AYSRH YOUTH CHAMPIONS

5.2.1 Eliezer Epukulu

Eliezer is from Kilifi county. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. Eliezer is a community educator on
matter of sexual reproductive health and rights as well as mental health. He is a service provider in HIV
testing services, mental health and psychology support. He is also A Peer Educator, mentor and an Associate
of the Go- Make Impact Foundation, an NGO dealing with rehabilitation and support of Teen and Young
Mothers based in Kilifi county. He is part of the team that supports Kilifi teen mothers with an objective of
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helping them return to school and complete their studies. The program also offers psycho and social support
to the Teen mothers. He is also part of the quality assurance team in coastal region Trigganse -TIKO
programs that aim at increasing the uptake of contraceptives among young people between the age of 15 to
19.

5.2.2 Tima Ahmed Bakari

Tima Ahmed is from Lamu county, Amu Kisiwani. She is a secretary by professional working at Lamu county
government treasury. A member of Tchunwa group, which aims at fighting to bring peace among youths in
Lamu County. She is a member of Lamu professional forum and their work is to go around Lamu county to
sensitize and advise youths on importance of education.

Some of achievements made include advocating for AYSRH and educating the Youths in peace making

5.2.3 Alex Chivatsi Chai

Alex Chai is from Mombasa County, Bamburi Shanzu. He has a degree in Commerce specializing in Business
Administration. He is currently engaged in helping drug addicts to stay off drugs and unplug; proper use of
contraceptives and on how to utilize their talents and skills. He also uses his knowledge on Entrepreneurship
to provide those affected with social and economic options. He also helps keeping the youth informed about
sexual and reproductive health matters.

He is passionate about being part of this initiative.

5.2.4 Mrinzi Nyundo Mrinzi

Mrinzi Nyundo is from Kwale county, Kinango Sub-County. He has a Diploma in mass communication and
an experience as a male champion in MHM program. Some of the achievements made include inclusion of
appropriate budgets for AYSRH activities.

He is passionate about bringing positive change in society for the benefit of our youth

5.2.5 Peter Mwashigadi

Peter is from Taita Taveta county, Wundanyi Sub County. He has a degree in project planning and
management. He is the founder of Taita Taveta county youth network. He has worked for the Sauti ya
Wanawake Taita Taveta charter as a volunteer program officer. He is afield facilitator and ‘Yes youth can
project’. He has previously worked as a field facilitator under APHIA II Coast program.

Some of his key skills include, Community mobilization, organization and orientation of civil society as an
institutional capacity building, youth leadership governance on gender mainstreaming in parent-child
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communication, reproductive health and HIV and AIDS prevention home-based. Key achievements;
Initiating parent-child-communication, mentally health counselling adolescent youth to better their
performance. Young parents or young mothers’ involvement under Sauti ya Wanawake behavior change
communication which in this case was to influence behavioral change to the youth

5.2.6 Evelyn Mulwa Mwathi

Everlyn is from Kilifi county and holds a degree in education arts. She is also a member of the Go make
Impact Foundation and is actively involved in supporting, mentorship and Educating Teen mother on life
skill and sexual and reproductive health. She also does mentoring and counseling to the youth in Kilifi and
advocate for education rights.

She is passionate about peer mentorship and coaching.

5.2.7 Naim Kara

Naim is from Lamu county. He has a Bachelor’s degree in commerce. He also has over 10 years’ experience
working and as an active member of 3 youth based organization in Lamu county, whereby they work as a
team to sensitize and educate youth on drug abuse and also protecting their girls on early marriages. They
have managed to educate girls on appropriate measures and skills for a productive society.

Naim is passionate seeing a healthy community free from drug abuse and have a gender equality in all aspects
of life

5.2.8 John Maneno Buko

John is from Tana River County. He has a diploma in community health and development and in social work
and community development. He is experienced in youth leadership at the locational level. He is currently
the secretary of youth and Member in the ward, youth executive committee handling issues of the
community level in all round issues challenges i.e. drug abuse and teenager pregnancies, School dropout and
general community development issues.

Some of his key achievements include supporting school help school’s dropouts and high school failures to
join the TVETs institution.

5.2.9 Jeniffer Njoli (Jolly)

Jennifer is from Taita Taveta County, Voi Sub County. She has a Diploma in social work and mental health
psychology. She is a trained peer educator specialized on HIV and AIDS; Trainers of trainees of social
accountability, social inclusion, sexual reproductive health and Entrepreneurship. She has experience in

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Program management of an FGM project; Social accountability and Social inclusion programs. He has been
involved in Training young people and assist them to do advocacy and accountability for the SRH services
offered at the health facility i.e. access to contraceptives and friendly services).

She has previously worked in multiple organization implementing programs in the community especially on
the matters to deal with rights advocacy on SRH and access of quality health care.

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APPENDIX 5. 3: AGENDA FOR THE YOUTH ENGAGEMENT
WORKSHOP

Date: 28th July -29th July 2021; Venue: Reef Hotel, Mombasa, Kenya
PROJECT TITLE: Development of A Regional Strategy On Adolescent and Youth Sexual and Reproductive
Health and Rights (AYSRHR) For The Six Coastal Counties in Kenya.

DATE: PRE –CONFERENCE (28th July 2021)

TIME ACTIVITY PERSON RESPONSIBLE

Reception of participants in the
05:00 – 7:00pm hotel/Issuance of accommodation Mr. Eliezer /Hotel Management
7:00pm—8.30pm Climate setting and Bonding Dr. Flaura Kidere/Isaac Kyalo
8.30pm-9.30pm Dinner All
DATE: YOUTH ENGAGEMENT WORKSHOP (29TH JULY 2021)
VENUE: REEF HOTEL, MOMBASA, KENYA
TIME ACTIVITY PERSON RESPONSIBLE
08:00am – 8:30am Registration of participants Mr. Eliezer
09:00am – 09:30am Introduction (Participants) Mr. Isaac Kyalo
09:30am – 10:00am Welcome and opening remarks Dr. Flaura Kidere
Project Background, Objectives &
10:00am-10.30am Expectations Dr. Anisa
10:30am-11.00am HEALTH BREAK ALL
11:00am-11.30am Context, barriers and scope of AYSRHR Mr. Isaac Kyalo
Group discussion AYSRHR: SWOT
11:30 -12:30 PM Analysis at the County level Dr. Flaura Kidere
12:30-1:00 PM Plenary discussion on AYSRHR Mr. Isaac Kyalo
1:00 PM -2:00 PM LUNCH BREAK ALL
02:00 PM-03:00 pm Way forward & closure Dr. Anisa Omar
03:00am-03:10 pm Wrap Up Dr. Flaura Kidere
3:10 pm-3:30 pm TEA –BREAK ALL

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APPENDIX 5.4: LIST OF PARTICIPANTS THE YOUTH ENGAGEMENT WORKSHOP

County S/No. Participant Name Gender Mobile

Lamu 1. Tima Ahmed Bakari F 0704644665

2. Naim Kara Mohamed M 0726884417

Mombasa 3. Maimuna Siraji F 0712795484

4. Alex Chivatsi M 0714900347

Kwale 5. Mwanaamina Fakii F 0725456500

6. Mrinzi Nyundo M 0723550077

Taita- Taveta 7. Peter Mwashighadi M 0728354139

8. Jeniffer Njoli F 0724665331

Tana-River 9. John Maneno M 0705779193

10. Nastehe Abubakar Aftin F 0716787338

Kilifi 11. Eliezer Epukulu M 0700505630

12. Everlyne Mwathi F 0791695188

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APPENDIX 5.5 WAY FORWARD ON AYSRHR MATTERS IN JKP
Based on the SWOT analysis and key issues identified above, the 12 JKP AYSRH Youth champions
representing the six coastal counties unanimously agreed that below shown activities are crucial for
enhancing implementation of AYSRHR programs within the region:

i. Share information related to AYSRHR with youth led organizations in the counties

ii. Engage communities at household level to participate on programs relating to AYSRH solutions

iii. Engage the community/ society and sensitizing them to develop innovative AYSRH programs

iv. Engage CBOs/CSOs to lobby the county governments to implement AYSRH supportive
policies

v. Engage youth networks to share AYSRHR information at the grassroots level

vi. Appoint focal persons for regional Youths to spearhead the talks and advocacy

vii. Prepare a strategic work plan that involve JIL youth led organizations so as to mainstreaming
AYSRHS into the existing programs in the community

viii. Sharing information from youth engagement forums to advocate for initiation of YFS

ix. Work closely with all stakeholders i.e. media, politicians, church leaders and Education
Institutions to initiate, document and share innovative approaches to accelerate AYSRHS

x. Engage youth networks to share AYSRHR information at the grassroots level and to appoint the
focal persons to spearhead the talks and advocacy

xi. Prepare a strategic work plan to involve youth led organizations collaborating in
implementation

REPORT PREPARED BY:

Dr. Flaura Kidere & Dr. Anisa, Jumuiya Ya Kaunti Za Pwani, P.O BOX 90420-
80100, MOMBASA KENYA. Email: flaura.k@jumuiya.org ; f.kidere@pu.ac.ke ;
anisaomar61@gmail.com

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