Online Reporter
Latwell Nyangu
A CALL has been made to all stakeholders and policy makers to ensure that all individuals have access to Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights services they need.
Speaking during the “Sip and Paint for SRHR” event, which was held in Marondera, stakeholders demonstrated the value of creative and inclusive advocacy.
The event brought together an eclectic mix of stakeholders, including girls, parliamentarians and traditional leaders.
It ran under the theme ‘Colouring Outside the Lines, Unpacking Reproductive Rights in Zimbabwe’.
Hosts of the event, ‘Shamwari Yemwanasikana,’ said that they remain committed to advocating for comprehensive SRHR and safe abortion services in Zimbabwe.
“The event is meant to spark conversations around Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights (SRHR) and safe abortion, with a specific focus on the Termination of Pregnancy Act.
“The sip and paint event provided a relaxed and creative atmosphere, allowing participants to express themselves freely.
“As they painted, the group engaged in lively discussions, sharing personal experiences and perspectives on reproductive rights.
“The event’s informal setting encouraged openness and honesty, fostering a sense of community and solidarity,” said Ekenia Chifamba, the organisation’s director.
She said the event’s primary objective was to review the existing Termination of Pregnancy Act, identifying loopholes and areas for improvement.
“The participants highlighted the need for comprehensive reproductive health education and increased access to safe abortion services.
“They were also addressing societal stigma surrounding abortion and reviewing the age of consent laws, particularly in cases where minors are involved (e.g a 16-year-old boy impregnating a 17-year-old girl.
“The participants also called for the integration of abortion services into comprehensive SRHR, rather than treating it as a separate entity.”
One of the event’s most significant takeaways was the importance of amplifying youth voices in the conversations around SRHR.
“The girls in attendance shared their concerns and fears about accessing reproductive health services, highlighting the need for youth-friendly and non-judgmental healthcare providers.
“As Zimbabwe continues to deal with the challenges of reproductive health, it is clear that a multifaceted approach is needed.
“We urge policymakers, community leaders and individuals to join us in this critical conversation, working together to ensure that all individuals have access to the reproductive health services they need to thrive,” said Chifamba.
Mathew Masinge