Sexual and reproductive health is part of multiple human rights that allow people to make informed decisions about relationships, their bodies, family planning, sexuality, and wellbeing. However, millions of people worldwide experience barriers to this including in countries like Kenya.
While Kenya has made considerable progress in improving sexual health, the unmet need for family planning remains high, with teenage pregnancy currently at 15%.
There’s also a high prevalence of HIV and AIDS among teens, with adolescent girls and young women particularly vulnerable. They account for 78% of new HIV infections in Kenya today. Meanwhile, fear of negative reactions and discrimination deters young people from using important health services, including HIV tests.
However, two youth volunteers, Emmanuel and Susan, are helping to change this narrative. They’re working with young and marginalised people to promote sexual and reproductive rights in their home country to combat teen pregnancy and the spread of HIV and AIDS.