Kenya has set an ambitious family planning target to increase modern contraceptive uptake from 56.9 per cent in 2017 to 64 per cent by 2030.

Family planning is a key lifesaving intervention that improves maternal and child health outcomes. According to the Kenya Demographic and Health Survey, about six in ten married women use contraception with 57 per cent using modern methods and 6 per cent use traditional methods.

Speaking during a media briefing to mark World Contraception Day 2025 in Nairobi, Dr Edward Serem, Head of the Division of Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn, Child and Adolescent Health, said the country is stepping up efforts to expand access to family planning with new targets aimed at reducing adolescent pregnancies and strengthening access to modern contraceptives.

“We want to expand access to family planning and reduce unmet need from 14 per cent to 10 per cent, while also lowering adolescent pregnancy rates from 15 per cent to 10 per cent by 2025,” he said.

Dr Serem outlined recent innovations including the introduction of self-administered injectables such as DMPA-SC, new contraceptive options like the hormonal intrauterine device (HIUD) and digital systems to track and manage supplies.

“Kenya’s vision is a future where every pregnancy is wanted and where no woman is denied access to the family planning method of her choice,” he added.

He emphasised that sustainable domestic financing remains key to ensuring uninterrupted access to contraceptives, calling for stronger partnerships with counties, development partners and communities to meet family planning goals.

Dr Serem also acknowledged the vital support of development partners, civil society and county governments, whose collaboration continues to advance access to family planning services across the country.

The national commemoration of World Contraception Day on September 26, 2025, will be held at Makueni County Referral Hospital Grounds in Wote.

This year’s theme is “A Choice for All: Agency, Intention and Access,” with Kenya’s adaptation, “Chaguo la Wote; Making Contraception Accessible.”

World Contraception Day, marked every September 26, aims to improve awareness of contraceptive methods and enable young people to make informed choices on sexual and reproductive health.

• A Tell Media / KNA report / By Wangari Ndirangu