By Lovina Manyara
In many African nations, the pressing sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) needs of young people often go unaddressed. Sub-Saharan Africa, home to 226 million youth aged 15–24, faces challenges in providing adequate SRH services. This youth demographic represents 19% of the global youth population and 25% of the world’s population, undergoing significant physiological, psychological, and social changes. High rates of adolescent pregnancies, limited SRH knowledge, restricted access to contraception, gender disparities, and cultural practices contribute to SRH challenges in the region. Adolescents often struggle to access youth-friendly services, resulting in elevated STI rates, HIV prevalence, early pregnancies, and complications. To improve youth SRH, the World Health Organization (WHO) emphasizes accessible, acceptable, equitable, and effective youth-friendly services. Despite progress, gaps persist, making a comprehensive examination of factors influencing access and utilization of Youth-Friendly Sexual and Reproductive Health Services (YFSRHS) in sub-Saharan Africa crucial.
The Kenyan government recognizes the need for a collaborative approach, involving all sectors, partners, and stakeholders, to provide comprehensive reproductive health services to adolescents and youth, aligning with Kenya’s Vision 2030, the African Youth Charter (2006), and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The recent revision of the National Guidelines for Youth-Friendly Services in Kenya aimed to align with evolving sexual and reproductive health realities. Kenya’s decentralized health system presents an opportunity to enhance youth-friendly services. These guidelines provide direction for counties to prioritize actions, fostering collective engagement among government levels, partners, and civil society. The government’s commitment to integrating youth sexual/reproductive health into the broader agenda is highlighted, emphasizing the importance of involving youth throughout the process. Coordination mechanisms will be strengthened to improve youth health outcomes in Kenya.
Young individuals encounter a multitude of challenges when attempting to access healthcare services, particularly those related to Adolescent Reproductive Health and Development (ARHD) services. These barriers encompass geographical limitations in areas lacking local healthcare facilities and transportation options, as well as physical hindrances for those with mobility issues. Psychological factors, such as fear and anxiety, can deter young people from seeking care, while financial constraints, cultural norms, and communication difficulties further hinder access. Negative provider attitudes, policy restrictions, and a lack of awareness about ARHD policies and plans also contribute to these challenges. Limited resources, socio-economic factors like substance abuse and unemployment, and cultural or religious customs that clash with healthcare provision further complicate matters. Addressing these barriers requires a comprehensive approach, including infrastructure improvement, awareness campaigns, healthcare provider training, and community engagement to ensure young people’s access to essential healthcare services, especially in the realm of reproductive health.
Lovina Manyara is a Lawyer and youth advocate
