From June 17-21, 2024, the 7th Reproductive Health Network Kenya (RHNK) Scientific Conference took place at Sarova Whitesands Beach Resort, Mombasa, focusing on “Priorities for Advancing Adolescent and Youth Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (AYSRHR) in Africa.” KELIN, alongside various partners, participated actively in this high-profile event that gathered around 700 delegates from across the continent.
Dr. Edward Serem, representing Kenya’s Ministry of Health, opened the conference, highlighting the new Social Health Insurance Fund’s provisions for adolescents and young people. He also announced the development of a digital platform to disseminate vital health information to the youth.
KELIN’s Executive Director, Allan Maleche, featured prominently in two high-level panels. On June 19, he joined David Malombe of KHRC, Judy Amina of SRHR Alliance Kenya, and Nelly Munyasia of RHNK to discuss AYSRHR intersectionality. The following day, he participated in a side event with East African experts like Evelyn Opondo of ICRW, focusing on strategic litigation for AYSRHR advancement. Allan emphasized the need for clear definitions and harmonized legal frameworks to protect health service providers from prosecution.
KELIN’s Nyokabi Njogu moderated sessions on integrating AYSRHR as a development agenda and evidence-informed advocacy for legal reforms. Presentations highlighted efforts in extending SRHR services, safe abortion services, and using podcasts for youth advocacy. Njogu also facilitated discussions on legal advocacy and policy reforms, showcasing successful case studies such as the fee exemption for survivors of sexual and gender-based violence.
Margaret Nyambura, KELIN’s SRHR Program Coordinator, presented on policy and legal reforms, including Kenya’s Reproductive Health Policy 2022-2027. She moderated sessions featuring innovative digital health solutions like the Rafikey and Myka chatbots. Nyambura also participated in a youth panel on peer-to-peer awareness and advocacy.
Catherine Namulanda, Associate Legal Counsel at KELIN, displayed a poster on the impacts of inadequate sexuality education on teen pregnancies and HIV rates, which was exhibited throughout the conference.
The conference culminated in KELIN signing Memoranda of Understanding with Usawa Health Foundation and RHNK, fostering collaboration in fundraising, project implementation, and medico-legal training.
KELIN’s participation underscored its commitment to advancing AYSRHR through digital health interventions and strategic litigation. The conference’s discussions are timely, aligning with the Ministry of Health’s development of the Adolescents’ and Youth Sexual and Reproductive Health Policy. KELIN urges the Ministry to heed the youth’s voices and ensure timely access to crucial services.
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For more information, please contact:
Margaret Nyambura, Programme Coordinator
Kenya Legal and Ethical Issues Network on HIV & AIDS (KELIN) Ema
