Programmatic mapping and estimating the population size of key populations in Kenya-Research article

Effective coverage of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) prevention services for Key Populations (KPs), including female sex workers (FSWs), men who have sex with men (MSM), people who inject drugs (PWID) and transgender (TG) people necessitates periodic validation of physical venues and size estimates. Kenya conducted a robust size estimation of KPs in 2012, and a repeat mapping and size estimation exercise was conducted in 2018 to update KP Size Estimates and sub-typologies within each County for calculating realistic program indicators. 

A prospective mixed method programmatic mapping approach adopted comprised two steps. The first step involved consolidating and documenting all known venues where KPs congregate, while the second step included visiting and validating these venues confirming their active status. Data were collected in 34 out of 47 Counties in Kenya between January and March 2018. Data collected included estimated number of KPs (range), venue typology and timing of operation of each venue.  
Kenya estimated a total number of 167,940 (129,271 to 206,609) FSWs; 32,580 (24,704 to 40,455) MSM; 16,063 (12,426 to 19,691) PWIDs; 10,951 (8,160 to 13,742) and 4,305 (2,826 to 5,783) transgender people congregating at 10,250, 1,729, 401 and 1,202 venues respectively. Majority of the venues for FSW (81%), MSM (64%) and transgender people (67%) were bars with and without lodging, PWIDs were mostly found on streets and injecting dens (70%).  Around 9% of FSW and MSM and11% of PWIDs were below the age of 18 years. 
Conclusion: This study provided information on young KPs, female PWIDs, MSWs and for the first time, TG people in Kenya. The exercise updated size estimates of KPs by typology and provided new evidence for resource allocation, planning of interventions and targets. Programmatic mapping continues to be a useful approach supporting programs to achieve high levels of coverage and prioritize resources.

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Doris Kuzma

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Doris Kuzma is a seasoned Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) with over 25 years of experience in financial management, administration, and project leadership. She has played a pivotal role in the strategic and financial oversight of major international projects, collaborating with universities, governments, NGOs, and global institutions. As the Director of Administration and Finance at the Institute for Global Public Health, University of Manitoba, Doris has overseen complex multi-location projects across Asia, Africa, and Europe. Her expertise spans financial reporting, strategic planning, contract negotiations, and budget management. In her extensive career, Doris has been instrumental in driving financial strategies, improving administrative systems, and ensuring compliance with international funding agencies. Doris is recognized for her leadership in financial governance, her ability to navigate complex financial landscapes, and her commitment to advancing public health through sound financial management.

Wanjiru Angela Nduati

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Wanjiru Angela Nduati is a qualified Advocate of the High Court of Kenya. She holds a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) Honours degree from the University of Leicester, UK, and has advanced certifications in trust creation law, company law, and trustee investment law. Wanjiru’s career includes pivotal roles in both legal practice and corporate governance. She is the Co-founder and managing partner of Havelock, Nduati & Company Advocates, she specializes in trusts, estate planning, and property structuring. With over two decades of experience, she held pivotal roles including Head of Governance & Control at Barclays Consumer Banking and Group Company Secretary & Legal Counsel at Barclays Bank of Kenya. Wanjiru is highly regarded for her expertise in legal practice and corporate governance, playing a pivotal role in shaping legal and financial strategies for individuals and institutions.