Incorporating findings from a vaccine refusal study to develop a community play to improve understanding of maternal vaccines in rural Kilifi, Kenya

Innovative approaches are urgently needed to address the growing concern of vaccine hesitancy. Used effectively, community theatre has the potential to promote health knowledge and attitude change as it encourages community dialogues and information sharing. We used research findings from a vaccine hesitancy study to develop a community play on maternal vaccines. The development of the script for the play was an iterative process between a local community theatre group and the research team. Outreaches in three community open spaces were held. Evaluation comprised notes and observations from outreaches and group discussions among community audiences. Discussions were recorded, transcribed and translated to English and analysed using thematic approach. We produced an entertaining and culturally relevant performance that conveyed key messages about maternal vaccines in a clear and accessible manner in the local language. Community feedback highlighted its effectiveness in dispelling rumours and correcting misinformation while enhancing knowledge and understanding of maternal vaccination. Community members appreciated that it was informative and educational, demonstrating how research-based theatre can serve as an innovative tool for public health communication. Researchers working in comparable contexts may adapt this approach to address vaccine hesitancy in their own settings.