Sustainable family planning (FP) programs require strong leadership, effective coordination, and adequate financial resources at both national and county levels. However, challenges such as limited FP financing, weak policy implementation, and gaps in commodity security continue to hinder progress. DESIP programme played a critical role in strengthening the capacity of national and county governments to plan, finance, and coordinate FP services. Key areas of intervention included policy and planning, financing, commodity security, private sector engagement, and evidence-based decision-making.
Weak policy implementation and planning at the county level remain key challenges in FP service delivery. Many counties lack comprehensive FP strategies aligned with national goals, leading to inconsistencies in service delivery and resource allocation. DESIP supported the development and implementation of County Family Planning Costed Implementation Plans (CIPs), which provided a clear roadmap for FP programming by outlining priority interventions, funding needs, and monitoring frameworks. By integrating FP into County Integrated Development Plans (CIDPs), AWPs and health sector strategies, DESIP strengthened policy alignment and enhanced commitment to FP service delivery.
Additionally, DESIP supported the establishment and operationalization of RMNCAH and Commodity Security Technical Working Groups (TWGs) at both national and county levels to improve coordination and accountability. The program facilitated policy dialogues and stakeholder engagements to ensure that FP priorities were integrated into broader health and development plans. DESIP also supported the review and alignment of FP policies with Kenya’s Universal Health Coverage (UHC) agenda to ensure long-term sustainability.
FP programs have historically relied heavily on donor funding, with limited county budget allocations posing a risk to sustainability. DESIP strengthened domestic financing for FP by building the capacity of county governments to advocate for increased FP budgetary commitments. This was achieved through targeted advocacy engagements with policymakers, county executives, and health sector stakeholders during AWP development leading to the establishment of dedicated FP budget lines in several counties.
To enhance financial accountability and transparency, DESIP provided technical assistance in budget tracking and execution. The program also supported counties in integrating FP into health insurance schemes and UHC programs to ensure long-term financial sustainability. Through public financial management (PFM) training sessions, health sector officials were equipped with skills to mobilize resources, track expenditures, and efficiently allocate funds for FP services.
Frequent stockouts of contraceptive methods disrupt service continuity, and many counties struggle with inefficient supply chain management. DESIP worked to strengthen forecasting, procurement, and distribution systems by training county and sub-county health teams in data-driven commodity management. The introduction of real-time tracking dashboards enabled timely identification and resolution of stock imbalances, significantly reducing stockouts and ensuring uninterrupted access to a wide range of contraceptive options.
In addition, DESIP promoted public-private partnerships to improve FP commodity security. The program facilitated engagements with the private sector to expand FP commodity distribution channels, increasing access to contraceptives through pharmacies and private health facilities. DESIP also supported the implementation of last-mile distribution strategies to ensure that FP commodities reached underserved and remote areas.
For effective FP programming, evidence and accountability are crucial in informing decision-making and tracking progress. Many counties face challenges in collecting, analyzing, and using FP data effectively. DESIP strengthened routine data collection, reporting, and the use of FP indicators by training county health officials on data management and evidence-based decision-making.
To enhance accountability, DESIP supported the institutionalization of performance review mechanisms such as annual FP performance reviews and data review meetings. These platforms provided opportunities for counties to assess progress, identify challenges, and develop actionable solutions for improving FP service delivery. Additionally, DESIP facilitated the adoption of the Kenya Quality Model for Health (KQMH) and established FP quality assurance teams to monitor and improve service quality.
Furthermore, the program supported research and learning initiatives e.g. CEIs by conducting operational research, generating evidence on best practices, and disseminating findings to inform policy and programmatic decisions. These efforts ensured that FP interventions were data-driven, responsive, and continuously improved based on emerging insights.
