Expanding youth access to reproductive health

Hi friends,

A while ago, the Kenyan press carried disturbing reports about marginalized communities in the northern part of Kenya "recycling" condoms and re-using them.

As much as the general public was dismayed by these reports, a survey by government indicated that there was a huge shortage of condoms in both supermarkets, hospitals and within civic societies dealing with reproductive health.

But GEMINI did not join the brouhaha but went out to carry out several campaigns to distribute condoms to sexually active young people. The campaign sought to provide accurate information on how to use condoms, counseling on other contraceptive methods and awareness creation on where to access reproductive health information, services and resources.

"It is encouraging that more and more youth are using contraceptives but it is also worrying that behaviour change is taking so long to be realized," says Naomi, one of the campaign spokespersons. "We will keep on until we are satisfied that young people are able to make informed choices and are no longer at high risk of contracting STDs."

Some of the salient features of the project involves reaching out to young people in their own language, through music, dance and creative arts to enable them strengthen their capacity in making decisions.

We continue to extend our gratitude to all that have continued to support our initiatives in strengthening leadership capacities among the youth. We sincerely hope that your support and feedback will keep us focused and help us extend our services to more deserving youth in rural areas.

Thanks and please let us know of your thoughts!

Stella