Exploring experiences of peer mentoring strategy to build capacity of providers in the context of integrating sexual reproductive health into HIV services in Kenya C. Ndwiga1, C. Warren1, R. Mutemwa2, S. Mayhew2 I. Askew1, T. Abuya.

Background
Integrating sexual and reproductive health (SRH) and HIV services improves service utilization and enables health systems respond to client’s needs. Traditional capacity building approaches such as offsite training workshops are costly, interrupts service delivery and providers rarely share new skills and knowledge acquired through such workshops. To address this, the Integra Initiative introduced mentorship as part of interventions activities in study aimed at assessing the benefits and cost of integrating HIV and RH services.
Overall objective: To describe service providers experiences and perceptions of peer mentorship approach used as a method of capacity building for integrating HIV into RH services
Study location: Fourteen health facilities in three districts in Kenya
Methodology: Stratified sampling technique was employed. Using interview guide in depth interviews were conducted with sixteen mentors and 25 mentees. Data was code and analyzed using NVIVO 9

Results: Mentoring improves knowledge and skills in HIV and HIV integration thus improving the access of a wide range of services to the clients. Adequate RH and HIV supplies/commodities; and supportive management necessary for effective mentoring.
Conclusion: Mentorship improves providers’ skills and scope of practice in integrated RH and HIV