SADC Unites on the Plight to Save Young People

On Thursday February 27th 2020, Partners in Sexual Health (PSH) alongside the International Planned Parenthood Federation - African Regional Office (IPPF ARO) with members of the Siyakwazi Youth Network (SYN) and Youth Action Movement (YAM), Journalists, Civil Society Organisations dealing with Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR), People with Disabilities and Policy makers and influencers convened in Cape Town South Africa for the official Launch of the Regional (SADC) Because We Can! Campaign.

This campaign traverses across 8 SADC countries Botswana, Zambia, Malawi, Eswathini, Lesotho, Namibia, South Africa and Mozambique and aims to form a unique coalition between youth serving SRHR organisations and faith based organisations to promote young people’s access to SRHR and Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) information and services in the 8 Southern African countries.

So far Southern African governments have made progressive policy commitments to offer young people universal access to SRHR information and services. The Maputo Plan of Action operationalises the Continental Policy Framework for SRHR and the ESA Commitments promises Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE).

During the Launch the young people presented a skit which portrait the difficulties young people face as African Children when trying to access SRHR services. The skit was spot on in re-enacting the barriers they face in terms of societal norms and taboos and intimidation experienced when seeking contraceptives and other SRHR services.

Everyone across the region can be a member of this campaign as it is available across various social media platforms and through its efforts young people will have information and skills, not be forced into pregnancy and have access to healthcare they need for their safety and well-being.