Our Programs
Kiambu County Activities
Treatment Literacy Sensitization Sessions By ICWK Community Volunteers With Existing Support Groups In Kiambu County
18th August, 2023
ICWK held treatment literacy session Wangige and Kiambu Sub-counties, Kiambu County. This was aimed to empower individuals living with HIV, particularly those with high viral loads. Expert clients whose viral load has been undetectable for long shared their insights to uplift and guide those facing challenges. The session fostered an environment of empathy, support, and learning, with the ultimate goal of enhancing the quality of life for all participants.
One of the participants recounted that she had been tested less than a month before when she went to the facility very sick and barely able to walk but so far she was feeling much stronger. She was even happy about how her skin was changing and beginning to look normal again and encouraged the rest saying the medication works if the instructions given at the hospital are followed to the later.
Pauline Kimemia, the facilitator shared some of the reasons behind high viral loads, such as medication non-adherence, poor nutrition, missed medical appointments, mixing medications with alcohol or herbal remedies, inconsistent condom use, and irregular medication schedules. She explained that the high viral load will increase chances of opportunistic infections such as TB and meningitis but also other common illnesses that would have been easy to manage would be difficult to manage.
The session expanded to address family planning options for individuals living with HIV with emphasis that there is need to consult a doctor first before choosing any method so that they get something right for their body. Cervical cancer screening’s importance for women’s health was also emphasized.
Human Papillomavirus (HPV & Covid-19 Vaccination Outreaches In Kiambu County
23rd June, 2023
ICW Kenya in partnership with the Kiambu County Department of Health has been conducting HPV and Covid-19 Vaccinations various Sub-Counties in Kiambu County. The Covid-19 vaccinations were mainly community focused while the HPV Vaccines were mainly focused in Junior and Senior Secondary schools where they would be able to reach young girls who qualify to receive the vaccine as per the Kenyan guidelines.
HPV (human papillomavirus) vaccinations are an important preventive measure against HPV infections, which can lead to various types of cancers, including cervical cancer, as well as genital warts. HPV vaccination is typically recommended for both males and females before they become sexually active, as it is most effective when given before exposure to HPV. The HPV vaccine is administered as a series of shots. The recommended dosing schedule may vary depending on the specific vaccine and country guidelines.
In Kenya, the vaccine is administered to adolescents between the ages of 10 and 14. According to the Kenya Human Papillomavirus and Related Cancers, fact sheet, 2023, current estimates indicate that every year 5236 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer and 3211 die from the disease.
Cervical cancer ranks as the 2nd most frequent cancer among women in Kenya and the 2nd most frequent cancer among women between 15 and 44 years of age. About 9.1% of women in the general population are estimated to harbor cervical HPV-16/18 infection at a given time, and 63.1% of invasive cervical cancers are attributed to HPVs 16 or 18.
Both HPV and COVID-19 vaccinations are of paramount importance in safeguarding public health. HPV vaccination helps prevent HPV-related cancers and diseases, while COVID-19 vaccination reduces the risk of severe illness and contributes to controlling the spread of the virus. By prioritizing and promoting these vaccinations, we can protect individuals, communities, and global health while working towards a healthier future for all.
Psycho-Social Support Group Meetings for Discordant Couples
22nd May, 2023
Discordant couples face unique challenges in maintaining their health and relationship. To address these challenges and promote the well-being of such couples, a support group session was organized. The session provided a platform for couples to share their experiences, learn from one another, and gain valuable insights on relationship dynamics, adherence to treatment, safe sex practices, and the importance of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) in discordant relationships.
Couples shared their personal experiences of living in discordant relationships. One couple shared their journey of almost separating due to the challenges they faced, but with the help of the teachings they received for discordant couples, they were able to navigate their marriage better. Their stories served as an inspiration to other couples, highlighting the importance of seeking support and guidance in overcoming obstacles.
Participants learned that kindness and treating each other well are key to maintaining a healthy and thriving relationship. One participant highlighted how their marriage had improved since learning to be kind and treat their spouse with respect. Open discussions explored strategies for effective communication, active listening, and fostering a loving and supportive environment within the relationship. The couples were encouraged to prioritize empathy, patience, and understanding in their interactions with their partner.
Participants expressed their desire to meet more frequently as they felt lighter, more supported, and understood within the group. They recognized the value of building a support network of like-minded individuals who could provide ongoing encouragement, guidance, and shared experiences. The facilitators encouraged couples to maintain open lines of communication, exchange contact information, and continue supporting one another outside the support group sessions.
The support group session provided a safe and supportive environment for sharing experiences, learning, and gaining insights. The session highlighted the importance of kindness, adherence to treatment, safe sex practices, and the role of PrEP in maintaining the negative partner’s health and preventing transmission. By fostering an atmosphere of understanding and support, the session aimed to promote the well-being of discordant couples, enhance their relationships, and empower them to lead healthy, fulfilling lives together. Continued support and regular meetings will further strengthen the support network, benefiting the participants in their journey towards a harmonious and resilient relationship.
” The program aims to ensure that the negative partner remains HIV negative and that the positive partner achieves and maintains viral suppression.”
PMTCT Support Group Meeting at Kiandutu, Kiambu County
18th May, 2023
” Practical tips and strategies were shared to help women incorporate self-care practices into their daily routine. During the support group session, the participants were educated on using condoms consistently and correctly reduces the risk of HIV transmission between partners and protects the child from acquiring the infection.”
The Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission (PMTCT) program plays a crucial role in reducing the transmission of HIV from mother to child. With support from Global Fund through Kenya Red Cross Society, ICWK Kiambu organized a PMTCT support group meeting to address the holistic needs of women enrolled in the PMTCT clinic. The session aimed to discuss various key topics, including the importance of self-care, condom usage during sexual activity, attending all clinics, having a treatment supporter, and the significance of adhering to antiretroviral therapy (ART) during and after breastfeeding.
The session began by emphasizing the significance of self-care for mothers in the PMTCT program. Women were encouraged to prioritize their physical and mental well-being to ensure that they provide the best care for their children. Discussions focused on the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including proper nutrition, regular exercise, adequate rest, and stress management techniques.
The support group session held for women in the PMTCT clinic provided a platform for open and informative discussions on various essential topics. The session emphasized the importance of, regular clinic attendance, having a treatment supporter, and adhering to ART. By addressing these crucial aspects, the support group aimed to empower women to take control of their health, protect their children, and lead fulfilling lives. Continued support and regular sessions will play a pivotal role in reinforcing these key messages and promoting the well-being of women in the PMTCT clinic.
Outreach Clinic for WLHIV for Cervical Cancer in Gachororo, Kiambu County
ICW Kenya Kiambu with support from Global Fund through Kenya Red Cross Society, held a cervical cancer screening activity at Gachororo Health Center to screen women for cervical cancer and educate them about the importance of screening, the signs of cervical cancer, and its causes.
Cervical cancer is a significant public health concern worldwide, affecting women of all ages. It develops from the cervix and is caused by persistent infection with high-risk strains of human papillomavirus (HPV), a common sexually transmitted illness. While the majority of HPV infections resolve on their own, chronic infection with high-risk strains can result in cervical cancer. Cervical cancer is preventable and highly curable if detected early through regular screenings
During the educational session preceding the screening, women were taught to recognize the signs and symptoms of cervical cancer as early-stage cervical cancer may not present any noticeable symptoms, which emphasizes the importance of routine screenings.
However, as the disease progresses, common signs may include abnormal vaginal bleeding, post-coital bleeding, pelvic pain, pain during intercourse, and abnormal vaginal discharge. Women should seek medical attention promptly if they experience any such symptoms.
Other risk factors discussed included a weakened immune system, smoking, long-term use of oral contraceptives, multiple sexual partners, early sexual activity, and a family history of cervical cancer. By understanding the causes, women are encouraged to make informed lifestyle choices and take preventive measures to reduce the risks.
The Gachororo Health Center’s cervical cancer screening program was a joint effort of the health center’s staff and community volunteers. It was successful in raising awareness of the importance of routine screenings, as well as the symptoms and causes of cervical cancer. By empowering women with knowledge, the activity aimed to encourage proactive healthcare-seeking behaviors and contribute to the prevention and early detection of cervical cancer within the community.
” Cervical cancer is a significant public health concern worldwide, affecting women of all ages. It develops from the cervix and is caused by persistent infection with high-risk strains of human papillomavirus (HPV), a common sexually transmitted illness. While the majority of HPV infections resolve on their own, chronic infection with high-risk strains can result in cervical cancer. Cervical cancer is preventable and highly curable if detected early through regular screenings”
Sub-County TWG GBV Meeting at Igegania Hospital
The Gatundu north sub county GBV TWG meeting was conducted on 16th of February 2022 at Igegania hospital from 10 am to 2pm.
The meeting had 12 participants in attendance, drawn from various departments of the sub county health management team.
The meeting was chaired by the SCASCO Mary Mwaura, who welcomed participants to the meeting and introduced the ICWK team. Highlights for the meeting were the updates on the client flow with members present resolving to ensure that the first point of entry for clients was the injection room so that they may be analyzed and provided with preventive medication for HIV, STIs and pregnancy. This is due to the fact that vaccine efficacy reduces with time and a client who comes to the facility at the 70th hour needs to be safeguarded first from possible infections and unwanted pregnancies.
The team also resolved to work closely with the police and chief to ensure that survivors of SGBV have access to justice. They called on ICWK to assist in supporting the sensitization of police and local administration.
The team also agreed to be meeting monthly until they are able to mitigate the challenges that the sub county is experiencing in the response to SGBV.