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• Research Papers

  Amref Learnings and Research Round Up July 2026

  The June–July 2026 edition of the Amref Learning & Research Round ups showcases a diverse portfolio of evidence advancing equitable health outcomes across Africa. The edition highlights how geospatial analytics can support the identification of zero-dose children and strengthen immunisation planning, while also presenting new findings on HIV prevention and treatment adherence, adolescent and youth health, mental health, maternal health, nutrition, child survival, and primary healthcare integration. Featured studies demonstrate the critical role of community health systems, integrated ser

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  How community dialogues influence norm change around female genital mutilation: a mediation analysis from a high-burden Kenyan setting

  Female genital mutilation (FGM) continues to devastate lives in Kenya, especially in Narok County, where harmful marriageability norms and social pressures fuel this violation of human rights. While community-dialogue interventions are key to ending FGM, we must demand more evidence and accountability to expose what truly works and drive lasting change.
  Evidence is clear: participation in community dialogues leads to powerful shifts in attitudes and intentions. Those involved are significantly less likely to support FGM, plan to cut their daughters, or view uncut

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  Prevalence and risk factors associated with obstetric fistula among women of reproductive age in Bungoma, Kilifi and Kiambu Counties, Kenya

  Female genital fistula (FGF) remains a major maternal health challenge in Kenya, with limited access to treatment despite a substantial disease burden. This cross-sectional study of 113 fistula survivors in Bungoma, Kiambu, and Kilifi counties found high levels of severe depression (66.2%), anxiety (51.3%), and suicidal thoughts (22.1%), largely driven by stigma and social exclusion. Many women faced barriers to skilled maternal care, including long distances to health facilities, while social isolation emerged as the most common coping mechanism. The findings underscore the need to strengthen

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  Experiences of fistula survivors, a case study of Bungoma, Kilifi and Kiambu Counties, Kenya

  Female genital fistula (FGF) is a major maternal health challenge in developing countries, particularly among women in rural and marginalized communities. This qualitative cross-sectional study explored the experiences of fistula survivors in Bungoma, Kilifi, and Kiambu counties, Kenya, through interviews and focus group discussions. Findings showed that before treatment, women experienced severe physical, psychological, and social challenges, including stigma and isolation, while after surgery they reported restored dignity, improved family and community support, and successful reintegration.

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  Feasibility of mainstreaming schistosomiasis and soil transmitted helminthiasis mass drug administration into primary healthcare: a baseline survey for a community case study in Western Kenya

  This mixed-methods feasibility study in Western Kenya found strong community support and health system readiness for integrating schistosomiasis and soil-transmitted helminthiasis treatment into routine primary healthcare. Communities trusted facility-based services, while Community Health Promoters remained key for outreach and awareness. Although infrastructure, reporting systems, and medicine availability were generally adequate, challenges such as occasional stockouts and uneven health worker training were identified. The findings suggest that mainstreaming treatment is feasible but requir

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  Spatiotemporal hotspots of neonatal and child mortality in Nyeri County, Kenya, 2018–2025

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  Integration of deworming into primary healthcare in Western Kenya: a quasi-experimental evaluation

  Integrating mass drug administration (MDA) into primary healthcare (PHC) systems can significantly improve child health in endemic regions. In Western Kenya, piloting this approach through community health structures and digital platforms increased deworming coverage from 58.4% to 75%, surpassing control areas. The integrated model reduced non-treatment rates to 5%, compared to 25% in previous campaigns. Health facilities played a central role in raising awareness, maintaining community engagement, and improving routine access. These results demonstrate the effectiveness of integrated PHC

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  Geospatial approaches for mapping zero-dose prevalence and routine childhood immunisation coverage in low- and lower-middle-income countries: A scoping review

  Zero-dose (ZD) children remain a critical public health concern, especially in low- and lower-middle-income countries (LLMICs), where over 80% of the global ZD population lives, mostly among the most marginalised. Geospatial approaches have become effective tools for identifying and targeting immunisation gaps. However, no review has systematically documented the spatial methods used to predict or map ZD prevalence and routine immunisation (RI) coverage. This scoping review addresses this gap across LLMICs.
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