In this study, we identify facilitators and barriers to COVID-19 vaccination in Nairobi, Kenya, using the modified 5 Cs model for vaccine hesitancy. We conducted 33 in-person interviews in Nairobi, Kenya. Participants were recruited using convenience sampling by a member of the research team who resides in Nairobi and speaks Swahili. Interviews were audio recorded and transcripts were analyzed using thematic analysis. The modified 5 Cs model for vaccine hesitancy was applied to create a codebook prior to analysis. Participants cited misinformation, lack of trust in the science behind the vaccine, and concerns about side effects as reasons for not receiving the COVID-19 vaccine. Facilitators for choosing to receive the vaccination included concerns about the severity of COVID-19, vaccination requirements for school and employment, and communication from the government. This study is the first to organize facilitators and barriers to COVID-19 vaccine uptake in Kenya using the 5 Cs model of vaccine hesitancy. Our findings suggest that to improve vaccine uptake in Kenya, interventions should inform the public about the vaccine’s safety and reduce misinformation.
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