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

Background: 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 behaviour change as it encourages community dialogues and information sharing. Methods: This project was conducted between May 2020 and Feb 2021. 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. Results: After taking into consideration feedback from the relevant stakeholders, we produced a community play that sought to address concerns around maternal vaccines. The resulting play was entertaining and culturally relevant and conveyed the message in a simple and clear manner using the local language. Conclusions: Research-based theatre provides innovative ways to improve public understanding of maternal vaccines. Researchers in similar settings may find our drama relevant and adaptable.