Faith leaders key to boosting HPV vaccine uptake, study finds
By George Kebaso, July 11, 2025A new study reveals that engaging faith leaders from the outset of health programmes could significantly improve uptake of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccines and contraceptives in Kenya, where religious leaders influence nearly 50 percent of their congregations’ health decisions.
The “Faith Leaders’ Listening Exercise,” conducted by Yemaya Health Advisory between April 7 and June 13, 2025, surveyed 425 faith leaders from Christian, Muslim, and traditional groups to understand their role in shaping health-seeking behaviour.
Religious endorsement
Janet Munene, a healthcare worker and faith leader at Maua Methodist Hospital, witnessed firsthand how religious endorsement transforms community acceptance. “When the HPV vaccine was introduced, the community was hesitant, but when key church leaders embraced it, uptake increased significantly,” she said during the survey results dissemination.
The study’s findings underscore the critical role of trust between congregants and religious leaders. Faith-based organisations provide 41 percent of Kenya’s health services, making clergy essential partners in health policy implementation.
Bishop John Warari, from the Interreligious Council of Kenya emphasised this partnership: “When faith and science meet, the outcome is nothing less than a miracle. To overcome challenges with contraception, HPV vaccination, and early marriages, involve us.”
Samson Miriti, a nurse from Isiolo County and church leader with visual impairment, highlighted the need for inclusive health programming. He revealed that some persons with disabilities underwent permanent family planning procedures without consent, sparking community resistance.
“Unless persons with disability are properly involved, we shall resist anything done to our members without engagement,” Miriti stated, calling for full participation in health programs at national and county levels.
Despite 96 percent of Kenyans identifying as religious and opposing early marriage, the practice continues due to cultural and economic factors. Kenya maintains a 15 percent teenage pregnancy rate, with some teenagers beginning sexual activity at 16, increasing HIV and HPV risks.
Negative impacts
The survey found that while faith leaders recognise the negative impacts of early marriage, their understanding of sexual and reproductive health remains limited. Views on contraception vary widely among religious leaders, with some supporting it for family health benefits and others opposing it citing religious or behavioural concerns.
Cervical cancer disproportionately affects Kenyan women and girls, with 3,211 deaths recorded in 2023. However, HPV vaccination rates remain low due to community hesitancy.
Dr Nduku Kilonzo, CEO of Yemaya Health Advisory, stressed the importance of faith leader engagement: “Faith leaders are trusted voices who influence millions, shaping community norms and behaviours. Understanding their perceptions is essential for health actors to effectively address challenges like stigma, gender-based violence, and service hesitancy.”