ICRHK, through the Nuru ya Vijana Project, successfully held its seventh Well Woman clinic at the Kilifi Drop-in Centre, bringing together women from the community for a health education session led by Health Educator and registered Oncology nurse, Regina. The session focused on breast and cervical cancer awareness, prevention, and the importance of early detection.

Since June 2026, Nuru ya Vijana Project has conducted seven Well Woman initiatives, reaching 106 women with health education, integrated screening, and referral services. These meetings form part of ICRHK’s ongoing efforts to improve access to health information and services among vulnerable populations in Kilifi County.

During the session, Regina walked participants through the fundamentals of breast and cervical cancer, two of the most common cancers affecting women, and stressed that early detection through routine screening can significantly improve treatment outcomes and save lives.

Women were guided through the process of breast self-examination and taught to recognize common warning signs, including breast lumps, nipple inversion, changes in breast size or shape, skin dimpling, and unusual discharge. Participants were encouraged to examine themselves regularly and seek medical attention promptly if they notice any unusual changes.

The discussion also covered cervical cancer prevention, including the role of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) in causing the disease, the importance of HPV vaccination, and the value of regular screening in catching precancerous changes before they progress into cancer.

The session struck a chord with many attendees, several of whom opened up about their concerns around cancer and the difficulty of accessing reliable health information and screening services in their community. For many women, this remains a persistent barrier, one that often leads to late diagnoses. Through the Well Woman meeting, participants left with practical knowledge to take a more proactive role in managing their health.

Alongside the education session, women were offered integrated screening for breast and cervical cancer, HIV, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), tuberculosis (TB), gender-based violence (GBV), and mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression, giving them a chance to know their health status and receive guidance on next steps.

Connecting Women to Specialized Care

Beyond education and screening, Nuru ya Vijana Project facilitates referrals for clients who need specialized care. Those requiring TB treatment are connected to facilities offering TB services; survivors of gender-based violence can be linked to legal aid and protection support; and individuals facing mental health challenges may be referred to a psychologist. To reduce barriers to care, the project also supports eligible clients with the costs of treatment and follow-up.

Through initiatives like the Well Woman meetings and community outreach, ICRHK continues to strengthen health awareness, promote preventive care, and expand access to essential services, reaffirming its commitment to empowering women and young people to lead healthier lives and build more resilient communities across Kilifi County.