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Ivan Zhakata
Herald Correspondent
Deputy Minister of Health and Child Care Sleiman Kwidini has called for an urgent need to address the systemic and societal barriers hindering access to sexual and reproductive health and rights services for adolescents in the region.
Speaking at a regional meeting in Harare, Deputy Minister Kwidini highlighted the shared vision of Zimbabwe, Zambia, Kenya, Uganda and Malawi, which is “a future where every adolescent is empowered, informed, and able to access the sexual, reproductive health and rights services they need without fear or barriers”.
He said it is important to include and amplify the voices of young people, as they are most affected by these issues.
“We must equip ourselves with compelling data and inspiring case studies that can galvanise our advocacy efforts, influence policymakers, and engage the public in meaningful dialogue,” Deputy Minister Kwidini said.
The meeting aims to create a comprehensive regional action plan, refine campaign strategies, and ensure that no adolescent is left behind in the pursuit of equitable access to sexual, reproductive health and rights services.
Over the next three days, participants will collaborate to develop strategies to dismantle these barriers, review advocacy goals, and establish regional advocacy networks.
The gathering was organised by Hivos, Regional SRHR Fund, Youth Advocates, and Restless Development.
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