NRHS contributor

Edwin Gumbe

Edwin Gumbe contributes to research, programmes and public health communication at the Nyanza Reproductive Health Society.

21published articles

From the author

Articles and updates

Research, stories and organisational updates published by Edwin Gumbe.

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COFFEE WEDNESDAY

Coffee Wednesday at Anza Mapema is a welcoming weekly social activity that creates space for community members to connect, relax and engage in meaningful conversations over a cup of coffee. The sessions provide an informal and supportive environment where participants can share experiences, discuss everyday challenges, encourage one another and build stronger social networks. Beyond the conversations, Coffee Wednesday promotes healthy social interaction, emotional wellbeing and a sense of belong

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GROUP THERAPY: CREATING SAFE SPACES FOR HEALING AND CONNECTION

Group Therapy at Anza Mapema provides a safe, supportive and confidential space where community members can come together to share experiences, express their feelings and learn from one another in a non-judgmental environment. Guided by peer educators, outreach workers, peers and Washikaji, the sessions encourage participants to explore personal and shared challenges, develop healthy coping strategies, strengthen emotional resilience and build supportive relationships with their peers. Through o

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ST. SEBASTIAN: A SAFE SPACE FOR FAITH, REFLECTION AND WELLNESS

St. Sebastian is a welcoming worship and wellness space that brings community members together to explore faith, spirituality, reflection and personal wellbeing in an inclusive and supportive environment. Through weekly services, participants engage in prayer, worship, meditation, Bible study, music, testimonies and thoughtful conversations that connect spiritual teachings with everyday experiences. The sessions provide an opportunity for participants to reflect on their faith, find encouragemen

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CULTURAL FRIDAY

Cultural Friday is a vibrant community gathering that celebrates diversity, creativity, identity and the rich cultural experiences of community members in a safe and inclusive environment. The event brings people together through music, dance, fashion, storytelling, games, performances, discussions and other creative activities that provide opportunities for self-expression and connection. Beyond entertainment, Cultural Friday creates a platform for participants to celebrate who they are, apprec

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ANZA MAPEMA MOVIE MONDAY: CREATING SPACE FOR CONNECTION, REFLECTION AND COMMUNITY

Movie Monday at Anza Mapema is a vibrant weekly activity that brings community members together in a safe, welcoming and relaxed environment to enjoy films while connecting, sharing experiences and building meaningful relationships. Through carefully selected movies that explore themes such as identity, relationships, resilience, friendship, mental health, human rights and everyday community experiences, participants are encouraged to reflect on the stories presented and engage in open conversat

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CULTURAY FRIDAY-PRIDE MONTH CELEBRATIONS

On 26th June 2026, Anza Mapema’s Cultural Friday will come alive under the bold theme Unapologetically Us. This celebration is more than an event, it is a declaration of pride, resilience and authenticity. In a world that often pressures communities to conform, this day reminds us that our heritage, traditions, and voices are powerful and worthy of recognition. From vibrant music and dance to storytelling and art, the festival will showcase the richness of our culture, unapologetically and witho

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CULTURAL FRIDAY- PRIDE MONTH AS RESISTANCE

Cultural Friday is not just about entertainment, it is about reclaiming space and affirming dignity. The theme Unapologetically Us speaks to the struggles and triumphs of communities that have faced marginalization yet continue to thrive through creativity and solidarity. By bringing together young people, elders, artists and activists, the event becomes a platform for dialogue and empowerment. It is a reminder that culture is resistance, and by celebrating who we are, we challenge stereotypes a

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A NEW CHAPTER FOR CAB

This week, the Community Advisory Board (CAB) held a pivotal meeting at the office, marking an important milestone in its journey. Members gathered to reflect on past achievements, set new priorities and most importantly, elect a new chairman to lead the board into its next chapter. The election was conducted with transparency and unity, underscoring the board’s commitment to participatory leadership and accountability.

NRHS News

A SACRED SPACE TO BELONG

In a world where many people feel unseen, unheard and excluded from spaces of faith, St. Sebastian Worship & Wellness stands as a gentle yet powerful reminder that God’s love is wide, inclusive and deeply personal. At St. Sebastian, worship is not just a Sunday routine, it is a living, breathing experience of connection, healing and transformation.

NRHS News

CULTURAL FRIDAY

Our recent Cultural Friday was nothing short of amazing! With an incredible turnout and vibrant energy all around, the space came alive with joy and powerful self expression. From engaging activities to electrifying performances, every moment reflected the beauty of our community coming together to celebrate, connect and thrive. Under the theme “Blooming Boldly,” we witnessed resilience, growth and unapologetic pride in full bloom. Thank you to everyone who showed up, shared their light and mad

NRHS News

LAUNCH OF LENACAPAVIR

On 6th March, an important milestone in HIV prevention and care was marked with the launch of Lenacapavir at Lumumba Sub-County Hospital. The event brought together healthcare providers, community representatives and key stakeholders committed to strengthening innovative HIV prevention strategies and expanding access to life-saving services for vulnerable communities.

NRHS News

GROUP THERAPY

The Group Therapy session at Anza Mapema provided a safe, affirming and supportive space for GBMSM and gender diverse participants to share experiences, reflect and heal together. Led by peers, the sessions focuses on mental health, human rights, reproductive health and security.

NRHS News

STAFF TEAM BUILDING & RETREAT

Stronger together! Our staff stepped away from the desks and into connection, sharing laughs, challenges, creativity and trust-building moments that reminded us why teamwork matters. The day strengthened communication, deepened relationships and renewed our collective energy to serve our community with passion and purpose.

NRHS News

MBILI PAMOJA STUDY DISSEMINATION

The Mbili Pamoja Study recently held a dissemination session to share key findings and insights with participants, staff and members of the Community Advisory Board (CAB). This gathering created an important space to reflect on the outcomes of the study, exchange perspectives and discuss how the lessons learned can inform future programming and community engagement. By ensuring that those directly involved in and impacted by the research had access to the results, the session reinforced the stud

NRHS News

EXPRESSIVE MK 8527 STUDY SITE VISIT

The expressive Protocol MK 8527 study site visit tour gave the team an opportunity to engage deeply with our work, learning more about our services and experiencing our Group Therapy activity first hand.

NRHS News

Our Annual Staff Team Building Retreat

Last December, our staff came together for one of the most anticipated events on our company calendar, our annual team retreat. Set in the heart of Homa Bay County, the three-day, two-night getaway offered the perfect environment to unwind, reconnect, and refocus after a busy year.The retreat brought together team members from across departments in a relaxed, outdoor setting that encouraged genuine connection and renewed energy. It provided valuable space to step away from day-to-day responsibil

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Cultural Friday- 2025 December

On December 19th, Anza Mapema hosted a vibrant “Queerly Merry” Cultural Friday, marking the close of the year with record-breaking participation. Many attendees joined the event for the first time, bringing fresh energy and enthusiasm to the celebration. Guests were treated to a variety of activities, including face painting, bead making, fun games, and trivia, which set the stage for an unforgettable evening. The cultural showcase came alive with energetic performances, featuring karaoke, danc

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Nyanza Reproductive Health Society at the Heart of Kenya’s Science and Innovation Dialogue

Last week, our Executive Director had the privilege of attending a vibrant consultation meeting hosted by the State Department for Science, Research, and Innovation at the Kenya School of Monetary Studies. It was one of those moments that reminds you why organizations like NRHS exist—to turn research into real-world impact. The gathering brought together all forty-six registered research institutions in Kenya, along with thirteen newly recognized institutions receiving their Certificates of Reg

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CULTURAL FRIDAY

Anza Mapema is excited to announce the upcoming Cultural Friday happening on 26th September 2025 from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Guided by the theme “Weaving Culture, Identity and Future,” this special edition will be a vibrant celebration of creativity, diversity and resilience within our community. The event will feature art showcases, performances, discussions and interactive activities designed to honor our shared culture while envisioning an inclusive future. All community members, partners and a

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A Cultural Friday to Remember — How to Live Illuminates Mega Cinema

There are some evenings that settle into memory like poetry—and last Friday was exactly that. The city of Kisumu came alive with color, conversation and community during our most recent Cultural Friday, where the much-anticipated film How to Live by the remarkable Muthoni Njoroge was screened at Mega Cinema to a full house. From the moment guests began to arrive, there was a buzz in the air—an unspoken recognition that something special was about to unfold. The cinema lobby transformed into a v

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PROMOTING HEALTHIER COMMUNITIES

This week our clients benefited from a free TB screening exercise facilitated by CIHEB. Early detection saves lives, thank you to our partners for prioritizing the health and well-being of our community