Kenya Launches Drive to Reduce Teenage Pregnancy Rates

In a renewed push to tackle adolescent health challenges, First Lady Rachel Ruto has launched the second phase of a government‑led initiative aimed at combating the Triple Threat of HIV, teenage pregnancy, and gender‑based violence. The program, championed by the Organization of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD), kicks off in four counties: Samburu, West Pokot, Homa Bay, and Uasin Gishu — all areas with particularly high rates of teenage pregnancies.
The campaign is backed by a strong multi‑sectoral approach: youth leaders, faith-based groups, health professionals, and county governments are collaborating to promote reproductive health education, improve access to family planning, and challenge harmful social norms. In Murang’a County, for example, community health promoters and local leaders are holding frequent dialogues in schools and religious institutions to discourage early pregnancies and empower teenage girls to stay in school. Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has also emphasized expanding access to contraception and care through the Taifa Care model under these interventions.
Simultaneously, the Ministry of Health has launched a programme to support pregnant teenagers more comprehensively. Under this scheme, teen mothers will receive prenatal and postnatal care, counselling, nutrition support, and mentorship — all through public health facilities. These young women are enrolled under the Social Health Authority (SHA), simplifying access to critical maternal health services.
Looking ahead, the government aims to meet bold targets by 2025: to reduce adolescent pregnancy from 15% to 10%, while sustaining gains in contraception access.Officials believe the combined efforts of community outreach, strengthened health systems, and youth-led advocacy can turn the tide — helping to build a safer, healthier future for Kenya’s young women.