TRIPLE THREAT CAMPAIGN TO ADVANCE ADOLESCENT HEALTH LAUNCHED IN SHINYALU
The Triple Threat Campaign was officially launched in Shinyalu Sub-County, bringing together learners, health professionals, education stakeholders, and county leaders in a united effort to promote the health and well-being of adolescents aged 10–24 years. The Triple Threat refers to the three major challenges predominantly affecting adolescents: teenage pregnancies, new HIV infections, and sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV).
The event commenced with a safeguarding de-brief and a PAA movie session that set the stage for meaningful discussions on adolescent sexual and reproductive health, responsible behaviour, and the challenges facing young people.
The CECM for Health Services Dr. Livingston Imbayi, who represented the First Lady, H.E. Prof. Janet Kassily Barasa, the champion of the Triple Threat Campaign, described the initiative as the beginning of a sustained campaign aimed at empowering adolescents with knowledge and improving access to quality healthcare services. He noted that young people represent our future and our strength, and that they must be protected.
Dr. Imbayi said that last year, 22% of all antenatal mothers in the county were adolescents and young people aged 10–19 years. During the same period, the county recorded 1,900 SGBV survivors, most of whom were young people. He said these statistics call on all county leaders to continue prioritising GBV prevention through partnerships, gender mainstreaming, community awareness, and capacity building in collaboration with partners and civil society organisations.
The CECM for Education, Dr. Benard Amwayi, commended the collaborative efforts between the health and education sectors in addressing adolescent health challenges, urging all stakeholders to remain committed to nurturing a healthy, informed, and productive generation. He added that the county has created opportunities for girls and boys who did not complete their education through enrolment in county polytechnics. He also encouraged every adolescent girl and boy to abstain from risky sexual behaviour, emphasizing that their voices matter and their future is everything.
The programme will continue on tomorrow (saturday) at St. Paul’s Shibuye before moving to Malava.
Also present were Chief Officers led by Ms. Rose Muhanda (Public Health), Gender Advisor Ms. Leah Khasandi, Steve Wandei, Grace Wanjiku (Tiko), Josephine Odhiambo (ICS) and Shinyalu Sub-County Administrator Wycliffe Kisienya among others.