Mask Up! Testing strategies to increase mask use in Kenya

Although conflicting recommendations have been issued, recent evidence suggests that face masks may significantly reduce the spread of SARS-CoV-2. However, questions remain on how to effectively promote mask adoption. Despite masks being mandatory, recent evidence shows that less than 20 percent of individuals wear them at markets in Western Kenya. In partnership with the Ministry of Health in Siaya county, the research team will evaluate a pilot program that distributes a free mask to each citizen, combined with educational interventions informed by insights from behavioral economics. The project team will identify the most cost-effective way to boost adoption, directly informing the design and implementation of an intended future scale up in Siaya county (population of 1 million). In doing so, the team will create real-time actionable evidence for policy makers in Siaya and elsewhere planning similar initiatives.