Implementation of a Multisectoral Approach to Address Adolescent Pregnancy: A Case Study of Subnational Advocacy Informing National Scale-Up in Kenya

Abstract

Adolescent pregnancy continues to be a major concern globally, especially in sub-Saharan Africa, where it contributes to high maternal mortality and morbidity and other non-health consequences, such as school dropouts. Addressing adolescent sexual and reproductive health requires an enabling environment that extends beyond an individual to community and society levels through concerted efforts by various sectors and agencies. From 2016 to 2022, we implemented an advocacy intervention in Kenya that catalyzed multisectoral collaboration to address adolescent sexual and reproductive health issues, specifically adolescent pregnancy, at subnational and national levels. In this article, we document our experiences implementing the intervention by presenting a case study of this initiative, including the processes and lessons learned. Our experience to date demonstrates that multisectoral initiatives can be rolled out to address adolescent pregnancies in countries that continue to have a high burden of adolescent pregnancy. Successful implementation requires inclusivity, commitment, and leadership to fully realize the potential that multisectoral actions have in preventing adolescent pregnancy.

FIGURE 1

Implementation Process of Multisectoral Initiative in Kenya Through SMART Advocacy Approach Abbreviation: SMART, specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time bound.

FIGURE 2

Implementation Timeline for Multisectoral Intervention in Kenya Abbreviation: ICPD, International Conference on Population and Development.

FIGURE 3

Comparison of Prevalence of Adolescent Pregnancy in Kenya Reported in KDHS 2014^a and 2022, by County Abbreviation: KDHS, Kenya Demographic and Health Survey. ^a Adolescent pregnancy prevalence reported in KDHS 2014 underestimates the magnitude as it doesn't include pregnancy losses (e.g., stillbirth and miscarriage).