Malawi SRHR Alliance Launches Youth-Focused Health Project in Mzuzu
The project, titled "Sexual Reproductive Health Strategies for Universal Health Coverage in Africa" (SRHR4ALL), focuses on adolescent girls, young women, and young people with disabilities.
MZUZU, Malawi -- The Malawi Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) Alliance, in partnership with MEA Malawi and funded by ZONKE Gender Justice, has launched a four-year project aimed at improving sexual and reproductive health for young people, writes Tionge Hara.
The project, titled "Sexual Reproductive Health Strategies for Universal Health Coverage in Africa" (SRHR4ALL), focuses on adolescent girls, young women, and young people with disabilities.
It kicked off with two days of training sessions on July 26-27, 2024, in Mzuzu.
Misheck Mahera Musokwa, the district youth officer in Mzuzu, advised youths during the opening remarks to stay updated on sexual reproductive health rights.
"As youths, be on the move to know yourselves, know ways you can use to protect yourselves from STIs and teen pregnancies," Musokwa said.
Gibson Chisale, executive director of PACE in Mzuzu, a partner organization leading the process, praised the initiative.
"As we all know, youths are the great leaders of tomorrow, and teaching them about SRHR will help them grab tips to help themselves as they grow and choose good directions," Chisale said.
Salome Kadazi, a youth attendee, told AfricaBrief that the training is providing them with accurate and comprehensive information on SRHR.
"As young people, it's important for us to know how to use these services and where to get them, thereby preventing ourselves from things like STIs, unplanned pregnancy, etc.," Kadazi said.
She plans to use her new skills to train other youths in their respective clubs and advocate for SRHR issues through online and other platforms.
Kadazi advised young people to always seek accurate information and access to SRHR services to stay safe and avoid STIs and unintended pregnancies while pursuing their education or other life goals.