Inadequate sexuality education, a barrier to AYSRHR commitments

There is need to promote sexual education and address harmful cultural norms through engagement with community leaders and influencers as a way of empowering women and girls - this was discussed in RHNK Annual Scientific Conference in Kwale County.

It is one of the resolutions from the participants who are attending the 6th annual Scientific Conference on Adolescent and Youth Sexual and Reproductive Health (AYSRHR) who also are pushing for an increase of financial investment in the programs related to youth and adolescents at the local level.

“The African Union adopted the Maputo Plan of Action and the Maputo Protocol as key frameworks for advancing AYSRH, which specifically addresses women's rights, including reproductive health rights, and calls for the elimination of harmful practices such as child marriage and female genital mutilation; among other commitments,” stated a statement released by participants in the 6th RNHK annual conference.

According to the participants, ensuring a meaningful youth participation and empowerment in decision-making processes in the African countries will bridge the gap that exists in the fight against challenges facing youth and adolescent early pregnancies being one of them.

They noted that adopting a multi-sectoral approach by integrating Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights (SRHR) with other sectors such as education, social welfare and employment programs to address the holistic needs of young people;

“Limited knowledge and understanding of sexuality and reproductive health issues among adolescents, youth, parents, and educators hinders the adoption of healthy behaviours, informed decision-making, and the utilization of available services,” noted the participants.

Also, the issue of deep-rooted harmful socio-cultural norms, attitudes and taboos around sexuality, gender and reproductive health was mentioned as an impediment to the localization of AYSRHR commitments.

“African Health Strategy 2016-2030, developed by the African Union, prioritizes AYSRH as a key component of the continent's health agenda, emphasizes the importance of addressing adolescent pregnancy, expanding access to youth-friendly health services, and promoting comprehensive sexuality education.”

The annual event resolved that limited knowledge and understanding of sexual and reproductive health issues among adolescents, youth, parents and educators hinders the adoption of healthy behaviours.

Therefore, there is need to bring them on board and foster partnerships and collaboration among governments, civil society organizations, healthcare providers, educators, and young people among other players.

Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG3) which aims to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages, with a specific target related to AYSRHR include reducing maternal mortality, ensuring universal access to sexual and reproductive healthcare services, and providing comprehensive sexuality education.