In a dynamic and forward-looking webinar held on August 24th, 2023, the Kenya Legal and Ethical Issues Network on HIV and AIDS (KELIN) hosted an engaging virtual event tailored for the youth from Kenya. The primary focus was to disseminate the UN Special Rapporteur on the right to health’s thematic report, titled, Digital Innovation, Technologies and the Right to Health. This report specifically addresses key themes such as access to sexual and reproductive health, the role of social media in healthcare, and the importance of access to information.
53 Youth attended the webinar with representation from TINADA Youth Organization, Fountain of Hope CBO, Epic Youth Organization, Strathmore Law School, Citizen Voice of Action Initiatives (CVAI), JKUAT, Stage Media Arts, Restless Development, Shift For Change CBO, Y+ Kenya, AYARHEP-KENYA, Epic Youth CBO, KESWA, ICWK, Wote Youth Development Projects, Ringa women fighting Aids group and Dream Achievers Youth Organization.
During the discussions, participants explored ways to contextualize the Special Rapporteur’s recommendations for the benefit of Kenyan youth. They emphasized that digital platforms can play a pivotal role in maintaining patients’ health records, ensuring swift access to healthcare workers in critical situations. Furthermore, they stressed the critical need to protect individuals’ privacy, reduce fraud risks, prevent stigmatization, and counter discrimination that could result from leaks of sensitive personal information.
Another focus of discussion was the cultural and societal factors affecting youth’s willingness to use digital health services, especially for sensitive topics like sexual and reproductive health. Participants proposed solutions, including user-friendly apps that encourage seeking help while ensuring privacy. Peer outreach and parental education were recommended to empower youth with information, along with awareness campaigns to foster dialogue and problem-solving, as well as community engagement efforts to educate all members on how to support those in need.
In conclusion, this webinar illuminated pathways to empower Kenyan youth, emphasizing the critical role of digital technology in safeguarding their right to health and access to information. Anonymity, privacy, and supportive environments were highlighted as essential components of this vital endeavour.
The webinar culminated in a social media campaign on X (formerly twitter) and Instagram to further disseminate the insights and recommendations of the UN SR Report.
See some of the materials from the webinar:
UN Special Rapporteur Report and The Side event at the UNHCR.
Data Mining Uncovered, is your data safe?
Uncover the truth behind your Digital Health Rights
The future of Health Care, Boundaries shattered, Utopia Unveiled.
To contribute to the discussion, follow KELIN on our social media platforms.
Twitter: @KELINKenya
http://www.facebook.com/kelinkenya
For more information, please contact.
Pauline Omoto
Program Associate
Kenya Legal and Ethical Issues Network on HIV & AIDS (KELIN)
Kuwinda Lane, Karen C, off Langáta Road
Email: paulineomoto@gmail.com
