NRHS studies, evidence and research updates.
NRHS editorial desk 18 published itemsAll study procedures for the POWWeR Health Study ended on 30 August 2026, following additional 30- and 36-month participant visits. A summary of study procedures and reporting tables, as per the protocol.
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Month 6 follow-up visits were conducted between December 2024 and May 2025, during which a total of 235 participants were seen, representing a retention rate of 94.0%. STI screening results showed that 14 participants (6.0%) tested positive for urethral Chlamydia trachomatis, while 4 participants (1.7%) tested positive for urethral Neisseria gonorrhoeae. Rectal infections included 4 cases (1.7%) of rectal Chlamydia trachomatis and 4 cases (1.7%) of rectal Neisseria gonorrhoeae. During month 6, o
As of 5th October 2025 a total of 220 participants had successfully completed their Month 12 study follow up visits, representing an 88% turnout. We have 30 participants remaining so that we can clear month 12 follow up.
Mbili Pamoja Dissemination Report held on 12th August 2025 Facilitator-Felix Ochieng Note taker-Patriciah Wambua Venue-Anza Mapema Date-12th August 2025 Composition of the attendees. A total of 15 staff members participated in the dissemination. The team comprised: one receptionist/records officer, two HTS counsellors, a hygiene officer, a field officer, a recruitment and retention officer, an activities coordinator, the programs manager, two clinicians, one attaché, two laboratory represe
Mbili Pamoja Dissemination Report held on 22nd July 2025 Facilitator-Felix Ochieng Note taker-Patriciah Wambua Venue-Anza Mapema Date-22nd July 2025 Description of attendees We reached out to a total of 200 participants, and 171 were able to attend the dissemination meeting. Mobilization was carried out through peer educators who played a key role in spreading the word. Additionally, participants were informed about the upcoming dissemination during routine weekly activities at AM, includi
The Anza Mapema kwa Afya Jamii Mbili (AMKAJ 2) Study was a pilot investigation built on findings from the earlier AMKAJ 1 project to further investigate the biological factors contributing to HIV and STI vulnerability among men who have sex with men (MSM) in Kenya. This pilot study focused specifically on MSM couples, examining the composition of the penile and rectal microbiomes and how these microbial communities related to mucosal immune responses. It was also conducted in Kisumu, Western Ken
Study Long Title: Acceptability, Feasibility, and Safety of the Shauriana Intervention for Young Kenyan Gay, Bisexual, and Other Men Who Have Sex with Men, and Exploration of Potential Impact on Sexual Health Outcomes Background: Gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM) in Kenya are at a higher risk of HIV acquisition. However, uptake and adherence to pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) have been suboptimal within this group. To address this issue, we collaborated with GBMSM commun
Background This single-arm trial seeks to evaluate the preliminary efficacy of menstrual cups on non-optimal vaginal microbiome (VMB), BV, and STIs of economically vulnerable women at high risk for STIs and HIV, and to understand safety, acceptability, and implementation needs. The goal of this study is to generate preliminary efficacy signals, identify features to optimize implementation, and adverse event monitoring, using as few participants as statistically necessary Study Design and Measu
At Nyanza Reproductive Health Society (NRHS), we’re committed to improving the health and well-being of communities in Kenya. We’re currently involved in an exciting clinical trial, FAST, which evaluates the effectiveness and safety of Tot'héma®, an oral solution used to treat moderate iron deficiency anemia (IDA) in adults. This trial, now at the data analysis stage, has the potential to change how we approach anemia treatment in the region and beyond. What is Iron Deficiency Anemia (IDA)? Ir
For many women, undergoing a manual vacuum aspiration (MVA) can be a painful and distressing experience. Despite being a common procedure used for early pregnancy loss management, pain control options are often limited, costly, or difficult to administer. What if there were a simple, low-cost, reusable solution to make pain relief more accessible? Enter the CHLOE-SED Study, a groundbreaking clinical trial in Western Kenya that aims to validate an innovative syringe extension device (SED) design
In the world of viruses, some announce their presence loudly—fever, cough, fatigue. Others? They slip in unnoticed, hitching a ride in the body’s most intimate moments, lingering in silence. Oral human papillomavirus (HPV) is one of these silent passengers. And in southwestern Kenya, a team of researchers is determined to expose its secrets. A Mystery Worth Solving For years, oral HPV has remained an enigma—especially in regions where HIV prevalence is high. While some strains cause no harm,
For years, the conversation around sexually transmitted infections (STIs) has focused on detection and treatment. But what if we have been missing a crucial part of the story? Beyond just identifying infections, what if we could understand why some people are more vulnerable and how their immune system and microbiome interact with these infections? That’s exactly what the Mbili Pamoja Study is set to uncover. A Deeper Look at STI Risks Men who have sex with men (MSM) in Kenya experience high
Imagine this: You're young, navigating relationships, and trying to stay safe. But in Kenya, where sexually transmitted infections (STIs) remain a serious concern—especially among men who have sex with men (MSM)—finding effective protection isn't always straightforward. That's where the Mambo Matatu Study comes in. What’s the Big Deal? Right now, MSM in Kenya face high rates of STIs, yet most healthcare centers rely on syndromic treatment—meaning you only get treated after symptoms appear. B
How COVID-19 Increased STI and HIV Risk for Adolescent Girls and Young Women When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, life changed overnight. Schools shut down, families faced financial struggles, and young people—especially adolescent girls and young women (AGYW)—were left vulnerable in ways no one had anticipated. For many girls, school wasn’t just a place to learn; it was a source of stability, protection, and access to health education and services. But as lockdowns dragged on, a dangerous reality
Uncovering the Silent Threat: Investigating Oral HPV in HIV-Positive and At-Risk Men in Kenya In the world of viruses, some announce their presence loudly—fever, cough, fatigue. Others? They slip in unnoticed, hitching a ride in the body’s most intimate moments, lingering in silence. Oral human papillomavirus (HPV) is one of these silent passengers. And in southwestern Kenya, a team of researchers is determined to expose its secrets. A Mystery Worth Solving For years, oral HPV has remained an