Today marked the start of a micro consultative and interface meeting in Arua City, where young people from Ajia Subcounty came together to share their experiences and challenges in accessing health services. The session, facilitated under the social accountability model, provided a safe platform for open dialogue between adolescents, community representatives, and health workers are a critical step toward improving adolescent-friendly health service delivery.

During the discussions, one of the key concerns raised by the young participants was the poor attitude of some health workers, which often creates fear and discourages adolescents, especially teenage mothers, from seeking care. Many shared how judgmental language, lack of confidentiality, or dismissive behavior made it difficult to return to health facilities for follow-up visits or counseling.

These candid conversations were not only eye-opening but transformative. For many of the health workers present, hearing directly from the young people provided a powerful reminder that quality healthcare is not just about treatment , it’s about trust, respect, and empathy. The health workers and local leaders acknowledged the feedback and made strong commitments to address the issues raised.

In particular, promises were made to improve health worker attitudes through ongoing mentorship and continuous professional development focused on adolescent-friendly service delivery. Plans were also discussed to strengthen youth engagement structures, ensuring that young people remain active participants in the design and monitoring of health services in their communities.

The interface meeting demonstrated that when young people are given a voice, they not only identify challenges but also propose solutions. Participants emphasized the need for youth corners in health facilities, better counseling services, and continuous community awareness about the rights of adolescents to access care without stigma or discrimination.

As the meeting concluded, both health workers and adolescents expressed renewed optimism. What began as a difficult conversation ended in mutual understanding and shared commitment , a small but significant victory for adolescent health in Arua.

Because true progress begins when dialogue replaces silence and accountability becomes a shared responsibility. Together, we can ensure that every young person, especially every teenage mother, feels safe and supported in every health facility.