COVID-19 vaccination rates have increased since distribution began in December 2020. However, in some states, such as South Carolina, getting people to take the vaccine has been challenging; as of spring 2022, slightly less than 60% of the total population is fully vaccinated. Vaccine hesitancy among Black Americans may be explained by several factors, including lack of confidence in the medical establishment and vaccines in particular. Faith-based leaders, such as pastors, can make a difference. This study explores the communication strategies that pastors in predominantly Black churches use to increase COVID-19 vaccination rates among churchgoers and the surrounding community. We conducted semi-structured interviews with 10 pastors in South Carolina. The main themes that emerged are: (1) using various communication channels to ensure access; (2) representing a trusted source of information; (3) offering a role model for vaccination—leading by example; and (4) strengthening the commitment to health. As the need for COVID-19 vaccination continues, including booster vaccines, pastors can provide accurate information and community outreach to promote the health of Black communities.

In 2003, 31% of young Kenyan women ages 15–24 reported sexual harassment and violence (SHV), with a majority experiencing sexual debut due to coercion ( Central Bureau of Statistics, 2004 Central Bureau of Statistics, Ministry of Health, and ORC Macro. 2004. Kenya demographic and health survey 2003: Key findings, Calverton, MD: Authors. [Google Scholar] ). Data were obtained from a sample of 20 girls attending school in Kamu and Lafamu (pseudonyms used for the study sites), 10 girls who had dropped out of school, and 14 teachers, using structured interviews. A phenomenological approach was used to describe narratives of girls' experiences with SHV in and out of school. The findings indicated that girls experienced frequent SHV in and out of school despite the Sexual Offences Act enacted by the Kenyan Parliament in 2006 ( Government of Kenya, 2006 Government of Kenya. (2006). Laws of Kenya: The sexual offences act. Nairobi, Kenya: National Council for Law Reporting. http://www.thesexualoffencesact.com/index.html (http://www.thesexualoffencesact.com/index.html) [Google Scholar] ). Hence, stakeholders need to reengage and implement existing policies on sexual abuse among children and women.