Today, we had the privilege of participating in the National Safe Motherhood Pre-Youth Conference, a platform bringing together stakeholders committed to advancing the health and wellbeing of adolescents across Uganda. The conference provided a valuable space for dialogue, learning, and collaboration among youth leaders, health professionals, policymakers, and community advocates.
Emphasizing the Need for Coordination
One of the key messages we highlighted during the conference is that improving adolescent health requires coordinated efforts across all sectors. Health interventions alone are not enough. Schools, families, local authorities, civil society organizations, and youth themselves all play critical roles in creating environments that support healthy growth and decision-making.
By coordinating actions, resources, and policies, stakeholders can ensure that adolescents have access to comprehensive sexual and reproductive health services, education, counseling, and mentorship. A multisectoral approach not only addresses immediate health needs but also tackles the underlying social, cultural, and economic factors that affect adolescent wellbeing.
Engaging Young People as Partners
The conference underscored the importance of actively involving young people in health initiatives. Adolescents are not just beneficiaries,they are partners who bring unique insights and solutions. By listening to their experiences and empowering them to participate in decision-making, programs become more relevant, effective, and sustainable.
Youth-led advocacy, peer education, and community outreach programs showcased at the conference demonstrated that when adolescents are engaged, health messages reach further, and behavioral change is more likely to occur.
Building a Healthier Future
Safe motherhood and adolescent health are closely linked. By strengthening multisectoral collaboration, we can ensure that girls and boys receive the support, guidance, and services they need to thrive. From access to reproductive health services to educational opportunities and community support, every sector contributes to the overall wellbeing of young people.
Moving Forward
The National Safe Motherhood Pre-Youth Conference reaffirmed that collective action is essential. Stakeholders must continue to work together, share best practices, and engage communities to create a holistic approach to adolescent health. Only through partnership, coordination, and youth involvement can we achieve meaningful, long-term improvements in the lives of Uganda’s young people.https://x.com/NaguruC/status/1980661772710461918
