Science Communication as a Bridge Between Health Research and Society in Kenya

Sammy Yaah Baya

Abstract: Science communication the translation of health research findings into formats accessible to non-specialist audiences is critical for ensuring that research informs policy, practice, and community health outcomes. In Kenya, public trust in scientists is high; however, research findings often remain confined to academic and institutional spaces. This desktop review synthesizes evidence from 2019-2025 on science communication within Kenya?s health research landscape, identifies existing gaps, and proposes a conceptual framework to strengthen the bridge between research and society. Literature from academic databases, institutional websites, and grey sources was reviewed and thematically analyzed. Findings highlight key enablers, including high public trust, emerging institutional collaborations, and digital engagement, alongside persistent barriers such as the scientist?media divide, language and accessibility challenges, weak policy linkages, and limited evaluation of communication efforts. The proposed framework emphasizes early stakeholder engagement, tailored communication strategies, capacity building, multi-platform dissemination, and systematic monitoring. Strengthening science communication in Kenya requires institutional commitment, sustainable funding, and active community co-creation to ensure that health research meaningfully informs decision-making and improves public well-being. Additionally, this paper introduces the BAYA Model of Science Communication as a practical approach to simplifying research messages, aligning them with audience values, yielding meaningful engagement, and activating behavior change within Kenya?s socio-cultural context.

Keywords: Science communication, Health research, public engagement, Knowledge translation, Kenya

How to Cite?: Sammy Yaah Baya, "Science Communication as a Bridge Between Health Research and Society in Kenya", Volume 14 Issue 11, November 2025, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 451-462, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR251105055841, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR251105055841