Research • Evidence • Impact

Research & Ongoing

Explore the latest NRHS updates and resources in this collection.

NRHS editorial desk 13 published items

news

The EXPrESSIVE-11 Study: Advancing HIV Prevention Through Monthly Oral PrEP

The Nyanza Reproductive Health Society (NRHS) is participating in the EXPrESSIVE-11 Study, an international Phase 3 clinical trial evaluating a new once-monthly oral medication for HIV prevention known as MK-8527. The study seeks to determine the efficacy and safety of MK-8527 as a form of HIV-1 pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) among populations at increased likelihood of HIV exposure. The investigational medication is being compared to the currently approved daily oral PrEP regimen consisting o

27 May 2026By Carolyne Oketch

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Mbili Pamoja Study Updates

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Mbili Pamoja Month 12 Study Updates

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Mbili Pamoja Study Staff Dissemination Report held on 12th August 2025

Mbili Pamoja Study Participants Dissemination Report Held on 22nd July 2025

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

NRHSResearch • Evidence • Impact

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The AMKAJ 2 Study: Microbiome and Mucosal Immunology Among MSM Couples in Kenya

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

NRHSResearch • Evidence • Impact

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Shauriana Randomised Controlled Trial

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

NRHSResearch • Evidence • Impact

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POWWeR Health Study

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

NRHSResearch • Evidence • Impact

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FAST Research Study - Assessments of the efficacy, the Onset-of-Action and the Safety of Tot'héma® in adults with moderate Iron deficiency anemia

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

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The Mbili Pamoja Study: Unraveling the Hidden Story of STIs and Immunity

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

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The Mambo Matatu Study: A Game Changer for STI Prevention in Kenya

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

NRHSResearch • Evidence • Impact

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Increased Risk of STI and HIV Among Adolescent Girls and Young Women Due to COVID-19: The CACHE 2 Study

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

NRHSResearch • Evidence • Impact

ongoing

NRHS - Ongoing Research

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