EmpowerHer Her Health Her Choise
Nyanza region (counties like Kisumu, Homa Bay, Siaya, Migori) has historically had one of the highest HIV prevalence rates in Kenya. Young women, especially those aged 15–24, are disproportionately affected.
Young women contribute a large share of new infections; in Nyanza, about 41% of new adult infections are among females aged 15–24
Risk increases rapidly with age: a girl aged 15 may face significantly higher lifetime risk if no prevention measures are used. The situation is worse young girls engaging in transactional sex.
This makes HIV prevention among young women Nyanza a major public health priority Although multiple prevention options exist, and thanks to new innovations and technologies: their effectiveness depends on:
Accessibility
Social acceptance
Consistent use
KISWA in a consortium of 5 sex workers led organizations secured a 3 year grant with aidsfonds for this EmpowerHer project. And the Consortium is
addressing outcome 1, where KISWA is working in 4 counties of Nyanza. (KISUMU, SIAYA, HOMABAY and MIGORI)
Awareness creation – Digital campaigns
Radio talk shows
Road show campaigns
Peer to peer sensitizations
Development and distribution of IEC materials (t-shirts, water bottles, stickers, key holders’ banners)
Documentation of structural and systematic barriers to access (Focus group discussions and interviews)
Advocacy meeting with Health stakeholders to address the barriers
Mobilization and referrals of young sex workers for services
