Renowned gospel DJ and media personality DJ Soxxy led a passionate call for faith leaders to take an active role in addressing teenage pregnancy during the #TusiNormalizeIssues Brunch Debate held on Wednesday at iHub Nairobi.

The event, hosted by Faith to Action Network under the theme “Faith and Teenage Pregnancy: Changing the Story,” brought together religious leaders, influencers, and youth advocates for an honest, faith-centered discussion about adolescent sexuality in Kenya.

Speaking during the panel moderated by journalist Rawder Kidula, DJ Soxxy emphasized the critical role of faith institutions and parents in shaping young people’s understanding of sexuality and responsibility.

 “Social media has amplified both the good and the bad,” DJ Soxxy noted.

 “Many parents have ignored that space, thinking it’s just for young peoplebut that’s where a lot of these pressures originate.”

The debate forms part of the Interfaith Adolescent Health Hub Project, being implemented in Kilifi and Migori countiesareas recording staggering teenage pregnancy rates of up to 71% and 80%, respectively.

Other panelists included Tina Masika, Fredrick Muitiriri, Anthony Ndiema, and Lofty Matambo, who joined DJ Soxxy in urging the faith community to normalize open conversations about sexuality rather than avoiding them.

“We must stop treating conversations about sex as shameful,” said Masika.

 “Faith should empower us to tell the truth with lovenot silence the discussion.”

The discussion highlighted how faith and media can jointly influence positive change among youth. DJ Soxxy, who has used his platform for over a decade to promote moral values and youth mentorship, reminded parents that faith alone is not enoughcommunication and awareness are equally vital.

“You have to begin talking to your children from a very young age because of the exposure they have,” said Kidula, echoing Soxxy’s remarks.

“When we give them information early, they can make informed choices. Even when they make mistakes, they’ll still come back to us.”

Faith to Action Network, the organizer of the event, works with over 215 faith-based institutions across 34 countries. The organization promotes family health, gender justice, women’s rights, and peaceful, inclusive communities.

Through events like #TusiNormalizeIssues, voices like DJ Soxxy’s continue to shape the national conversationencouraging faith leaders, parents, and youth to confront the realities of teenage pregnancy with openness, compassion, and action.

Journalist Fredrick Muitiriri shares his insights during the #Tusinormalizeissues Brunch Debate organized by Faith to Action Network, themed “Faith and Teenage Pregnancy: Changing the Story

Participants pose for a group photo after the conclusion of the #Tusinormalizeissues Brunch Debate organized by Faith to Action Network, under the theme “Faith and Teenage Pregnancy: Changing the Story.

The panelists engage in discussion during the #Tusinormalizeissues Brunch Debate organized by Faith to Action Network, themed “Faith and Teenage Pregnancy: Changing the Story.

Participants follow proceedings during the #Tusinormalizeissues Brunch Debate organized by Faith to Action Network, under the theme “Faith and Teenage Pregnancy: Changing the Story

Participants attend the #Tusinormalizeissues Brunch Debate organized by Faith to Action Network, themed “Faith and Teenage Pregnancy: Changing the Story.