Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST) has officially launched a transformative one-year research project to optimize cervical cancer screening in rural communities in Kakamega County. The research project, titled “Co-designing a Culturally Acceptable Strategy to Optimize Uptake of Self-Sample Collection for HPV Testing to Increase Cervical Cancer Screening for Women Residing in Rural Communities of Kenya,” is poised to have a significant impact on public health and women’s health advocacy in the region. 

The study, spearheaded by researchers from Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST), the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), and the County Government of Kakamega, promises to provide valuable insights into the region’s healthcare landscape and foster sustainable improvements in public health. The researchers are; Dr. Gregory Sakwa (Principal Investigator)-MMUST, Dr. Zachary Kwena (Co-investigator)- KEMRI, Prof. Peter Bukhala (Co-investigator)-MMUST, and Ms. Helen Odeny (Co-investigator)- County Government of Kakamega.

Dr. Gregory Sakwa -Principal Investigator (far right), Mr. Eric Wendo, and Prof. Francis Orata at the workshop. 

The project, unveiled during an inception workshop at Golf Hotel on January 29, 2025, will focus on creating a culturally sensitive, accessible approach to encourage more women in rural areas to participate in cervical cancer screening. The study will primarily address barriers to HPV testing, one of the most effective methods for detecting cervical cancer by introducing self-sample collection kits, which allow women to collect samples in the privacy of their homes. The initiative, which draws on the expertise of both MMUST and local community leaders, aims to design a strategy that is not only scientifically effective but also socially and culturally acceptable. By working closely with local women and community stakeholders, researchers aim to identify and remove obstacles that prevent women from accessing cervical cancer screenings, such as stigma, lack of awareness, and limited access to healthcare facilities.

This project is funded by the National Cancer Institute of Kenya, (NCI-K) and targets women aged 25 to 49 years and healthcare providers involved with the prevention and management of cervical cancer.  It will involve exploring stakeholders’ potential barriers to embracing self-collection of samples by women to design an acceptable strategy to implement the new model of cervical cancer screening. The study addresses the current burden of cervical cancer which is the second most common cancer with a representation of 12% of the cancer burden, its diagnosis happens late when treatment is almost impossible, and has a high mortality rate (in every 5 women diagnosed, 3 will die), only 3.2% of Kenya women screen for cervical cancer. The study will be carried out in the Lurambi Sub County.

Speaking during the workshop, the first lady of Kakamega County, Prof. Janet Kassily Barasa, expressed full support for the study, underscoring the County’s commitment to improving health outcomes. “This study is critical to our efforts to create a healthier Kakamega,” stated Prof. Kassily. “We believe that through this collaboration, we can address gaps in Cervical cancer diagnosis, and treatment and create lasting impact for our communities,” she added.

 “This project aligns with our vision of improving the health and well-being of women in Kenya. We believe that by empowering women with the right knowledge, we can significantly improve early detection and treatment of cervical cancer,” stated the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Solomon Shibairo.

In his presentation, Prof. Peter Bukhala emphasized the importance of community involvement throughout the study. “This research is not just for the academic community but for the people of Kakamega. We are committed to ensuring that the findings benefit everyone, from policymakers to local families,” said Prof. Bukhala.

Presenting the overview of the project, Dr. Gregory Sakwa noted that the research aims to break down these barriers and give women the tools to take control of their health in a way that fits their cultural values and daily realities. “The collaborative effort is poised to combine academic expertise with local government support to generate data that will shape future health policies and interventions in the treatment of cancer in the region,” said Dr. Sakwa.

The project’s outcomes are expected to lead to widespread acceptance of HPV testing and increased rates of cervical cancer screening, ultimately saving lives and reducing cancer-related mortality in Kakamega County. By focusing on accessibility, cultural relevance, and community involvement, MMUST hopes to create a model that can be replicated in other regions across Africa.

By Linet Owuor

Photos by Shiundu Masafu