Access denied? Exploring barriers and facilitators of gender-based violence community-based interventions for adolescent girls and young women in rural Kenya

Gender-based violence (GBV) remains a critical challenge for adolescent girls and young women (AGYWs) in rural Kenya, yet factors influencing the utilization of community-based interventions (CBIs) remain poorly understood. In Gem Sub-County, cultural practices and socioeconomic disparities often intersect to limit service efficacy and survivor engagement. This study aimed to map available CBIs and evaluate the barriers and facilitators affecting their utilization among AGYWs aged 15–24 in Gem Sub-County. Using a cross-sectional mixed-methods design grounded in the Social-Ecological Model (SEM), quantitative data were collected from 313 AGYWs across North, East, and South Gem wards via semi-structured questionnaires. Qualitative insights were gathered through in-depth interviews with survivors and key informant interviews with stakeholders, including local chiefs, healthcare workers, and law enforcement. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics (Chi-square tests), while qualitative data underwent thematic analysis. Several CBIs were identified including support groups, awareness campaigns, safe shelters, legal aid, counselling, economic empowerment and transport through guardian riders; however, only 27.2% of AGYWs were aware of these services, and utilization was remarkably low at 16.7%. Significant barriers included a lack of awareness (78%), geographic distance (20%), social stigma (19%), and systemic challenges such as corruption and limited confidentiality. Conversely, key facilitators identified were increased awareness campaigns (71%), family support (25%), and the provision of free or low-cost services (24%). Awareness and utilization varied significantly by ward (p<0.001), with South Gem reporting higher engagement levels compared to North and East Gem. The study concludes that despite available CBIs for GBV in Gem Sub-County, utilization among AGYWs remains low majorly due to limited awareness and stigma. To enhance service uptake, the study advocates for localized awareness campaigns, the expansion of safe shelters, and the integration of transport solutions like "Guardian Riders." These findings provide a roadmap for policymakers to implement more equitable, context-specific GBV intervention strategies for AGYWs in rural Kenya.