The appeal comes as schools prepare to close for the long December holiday, a period local administrators say brings greater risks of early sexual activity, unintended pregnancies, and sexual abuse.

Health advocates and local leaders in Kwale have urged the government to train and equip Community Health Volunteers (CHVs) to curb a rising number of HIV and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among local youth.

Speaking at a meeting bringing together teachers, parents, religious leaders, and security personnel, they said cultural taboos continue to prevent young people from accessing accurate sexual health information.

ZAMARA Foundation’s community coordinator in Kwale, Risper Kengere, said strong social stigma and a general reluctance to talk about sex have created information gaps that contribute directly to higher transmission rates.