Saving Kenya's Environment Through Family Planning

For over 15 years, the Communities Health Africa Trust (CHAT) has been a beacon of hope in the Ewaso Ecosystem, using motor mobile, camel mobile, and backpack (by foot) to implement integrated family planning interventions. Among CHAT’s dedicated team, Fencia, a Community-Owned Resource Person (CORP), has been with CHAT since 2017. With her backpack and unwavering determination, she trekked to the Waso dispensary, educating men and women about family planning.

While working in the communities, Fencia met a young woman named Chilli. “You remind me of myself when I started,” Fencia said warmly. “You have the passion to make a difference in the lives of others.” Over the next year, Fencia mentored Chilli, building her skills to engage the community and blend environmental awareness with family planning. By 2024, Chilli was ready enough to fill Fencia’s shoes in the communities she reached, with a main focus on involving the youth.

“Don’t worry, I’ll still be here for you,” Fencia reassured Chilli as she prepared to move to a neighbouring community, Lobarsherek, linking closely with the dispensary. “The community needs you now.” Chilli nodded, both excited and nervous. She was ready to continue Fencia’s mission, reaching out to the communities that rely on the Waso dispensary.

As Fencia shifts her focus to the communities near Lobarsherek and Kimanjo, she has kept in touch with Chilli. “We are in this together,” she often reminded her. This mentorship and

,smooth transition showcased the sustainability of CHAT’s strategies, highlighting the importance of building local capacity. Fencia’s transition story symbolises hope, continuity, and the enduring impact of empowering individuals to uplift their communities and their quality of life.

Through the generous support of GG, CHAT successfully disseminated behaviour change information (BCC) to 7,091 individuals over the last three months. Additionally, 1,411 family planning clients were provided with various contraception methods tailored to their preferences, with 901 opting for long-term pregnancy protection methods lasting either 3 or 5 years, effectively reducing the risk of unwanted pregnancies.

"When family planning becomes the family norm, population growth slows, helping to ease the pressures on the environment and ensuring a better quality of life for all." - Ban Ki-moon.