How can complex interventions be adapted to context? A qualitative analysis of the implementation of DREAMS in three Kenyan settings

In Kenya, the DREAMS Partnership (“Determined, Resilient, Empowered, AIDS-free, Mentored and Safe”) aims to reduce new HIV cases among adolescent girls and young women (AGYW; aged 10–24) through a comprehensive programme of interventions. The impact of DREAMS varies across settings but reasons for this are not well understood. One potential reason is the differential implementation of DREAMS interventions due to on-the-ground adaptations made by implementers. We sought to understand if, how, and why DREAMS delivery was adapted in three Kenyan settings, so that complex interventions like DREAMS can be tailored to diverse contexts and challenges.We analysed 40 transcripts from individual and group discussions with DREAMS implementing teams. Data were collected between 2017–2019 in rural Gem and two Nairobi informal settlements. Using both FRAME and CFIR frameworks, we identified programming and contextual challenges that affected implementation, local adaptations made in response to these realities and challenges, and the goals and reasoning for adaptation. Reasons for adapting DREAMS were similar across settings yet the type of adaptation varied by context. Adaptations were made to: 1) improve programme attendance; 2) tailor content to better suit AGYW, encourage programme attendance and address community concerns; 3) support participants’ wellbeing, amidst poverty, hunger and violence; and 4) cope with insufficient programming resources. Given their close contact with participants and families, DREAMS mentors often developed unique context-specific strategies to make interventions more appealing and accessible to participants of different ages and circumstances. Understanding shared reasons for adaptation across settings can help anticipate challenges before implementation, and inform the co-design of interventions with communities. As context-specific issues inevitably arise during implementation, mentors can be instrumental in adapting DREAMS, serving as a bridge between programme implementers and beneficiaries. Supporting mentors’ ideas and ongoing commitment can ensure that those delivering programmes plan, learn, adapt and improve in partnership with communities.