Online Reporter
Peter Matika, [email protected]
YOUTHS from various institutions and community groups gathered in Bulawayo on Monday and called for improved access to accurate sexual and reproductive health information, affordable healthcare services and more youth-friendly health facilities.
The dialogue, organised by the Parliamentary Youth Caucus in partnership with the SADC Parliamentary Forum, brought together young people from tertiary institutions, youth organisations, community-based groups and advocacy groups to discuss challenges affecting access to Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) services.
Representing people living with albinism, Mr Tanaka Mosi said young people with disabilities, particularly those living with albinism, continue to face barriers in accessing health information and services.
“People living with albinism have the same rights as everyone else to access information and healthcare services.
However, the reality is that many are still excluded because their specific needs are often overlooked. Information must be made accessible and inclusive so that no one is left behind,” said Mr Mosi.
He said awareness campaigns and public dialogues should be extended to communities to ensure that vulnerable groups, who are often excluded from such engagements, are reached.
Bulawayo social media influencer Mr Shaun Fusire, popularly known as ‘Umnikazi Wempuphu’, called for the inclusion of all young people in national conversations on sexual and reproductive health.
“We need to create spaces where every young person feels represented and heard, regardless of their background, social status or circumstances. Inclusion means ensuring that no one is left behind when decisions are made and services are provided,” he said.
Fusire urged young people to actively participate in discussions affecting their wellbeing and use their voices to advocate for positive change within their communities.
Participants also highlighted the high cost of healthcare services and difficulties encountered when seeking assistance at public health institutions.
One participant, Ms Thandeka Ncube, said financial constraints often prevent young people from accessing essential healthcare services.
“Some clinics don’t provide all the services we require while in some cases, the fees charged are beyond the reach of many young people.
“We need affordable services so that every young person can access healthcare regardless of their economic background,” she said.
Another participant, Mr Sipho Moyo, said young people need safe and supportive environments where they can seek healthcare services without fear of stigma or discrimination.
“Sometimes we are afraid to go to clinics because of how we are treated. We would like healthcare workers to be trained to interact positively with young people while respecting confidentiality. Young people should feel welcome and comfortable seeking information and services,” he said.
Emakhandeni-Luveve legislator Mr Descent Bajila said young people must be included in discussions and decision-making processes that directly affect their lives.
“Youths must be part of conversations that shape their future. We cannot continue making decisions about young people without listening to them. Platforms such as these are important because they allow young people to share their experiences and contribute towards finding practical solutions,” said Mr Bajila.
He said access to reliable information empowers young people to make informed decisions and reduces their vulnerability to misinformation.
“Information is power. When young people are denied access to accurate information, they become susceptible to myths and misconceptions. There is a need for Government, healthcare institutions and communities to work together to ensure that young people have access to the services and information they need,” he said.
Parliamentary Youth Caucus chairperson and Manicaland Youth Quota Member of Parliament Mr Stanley Sakupwanya commended the youths for their active participation and openness during the discussions.
“We are impressed by the level of participation demonstrated by young people here in Bulawayo. They have articulated their concerns, expectations and demands around sexual and reproductive health matters in a mature and constructive manner. This is exactly why these engagements are important,” said Mr Sakupwanya.
He said the dialogues were designed to ensure that the voices of young people influence policies and programmes affecting their lives.
“We are taking these engagements to communities because we want to hear directly from young people about the challenges they face in accessing SRHR services.
“Their contributions are critical in shaping responsive legislation and policies that leave no one behind,” he said.
Mr Sakupwanya said the Parliamentary Youth Caucus remained committed to advocating for improved access to youth-friendly services, increased awareness and stronger partnerships to address barriers affecting young people across the country.
“Our duty as young parliamentarians is to amplify the voices of the youths we represent. The concerns being raised here about affordability, access to information, confidentiality and inclusivity deserve urgent attention from all stakeholders,” he said.
The dialogue focused on access to information, the affordability of healthcare services, confidentiality, and the inclusion of all young people, including those living with disabilities, in health programmes and policy discussions.
Organisers said recommendations gathered from the engagements would help strengthen policies and programmes relating to sexual and reproductive health, HIV and Aids, youth rights and governance.
