Karonga District to Establish Pamoza One Stop Center for Youth
Director of Health and Social Services for Karonga described the project as significant in improving access to youth-friendly health services, citing the inadequacy of existing facilities.
KARONGA, Malawi- Pamoza Tingakwaniska Youth Organization in Karonga has launched a three-year Pamoza One Stop Centre project aimed at tackling rising rates of sexually transmitted infections and unplanned pregnancies among adolescents and young women in the lakeshore district, writes Lusekero Mhango.
The €267,000 project, funded by the Breucmann Foundation and the German government's Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development, aims to reach 10,000 girls aged between 15-19 years old.
"The center will serve as a vital resource hub, offering confidential and non-judgmental services tailored to the specific needs of young people in Karonga and its surrounding communities," said Gomezgani Mhango, the organization's Program Manager.
Mhango said the center would provide information and assistance on various health issues, including sexual and reproductive health, mental well-being, and recreational activities.
"Karonga, which is situated on the border, faces significant challenges regarding sexually transmitted diseases and unplanned pregnancies among its youth population, so the coming of this project will change the status quo," she explained.
David Sibale, Director of Health and Social Services for Karonga, described the project as significant in improving access to youth-friendly health services, citing the inadequacy of existing facilities.
"Having a dedicated one-stop center will make a huge difference for us. It's reassuring to know that we'll have a safe and supportive space where we can seek the care and guidance we need without judgment or stigma," said Grace Nyirenda, a local youth.