Reproductive and Sexual Health
Indigenous Information Network (IIN), believes in promotion of the rights of women and the young girls as a tool for social, economic empowerment. Globally millions of young people around the world, especially the adolescence brings not only changes to their bodies but also new vulnerabilities to human rights abuses, particularly in the arenas of sexuality, marriage and childbearing.
Millions of girls and thousands of the indigenous young women and men are coerced into unwanted sex or marriage, putting them at risk of unwanted pregnancies, unsafe abortions, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) including HIV, and dangerous childbirth. Adolescent boys are also are at risk, as well.
Among the pastoralist communities, the young girls based on the cultural practices, face a lot of challenges like forced and early marriages, FGM issues and ignorance or lack of the right information especially in schools on sexual and reproductive rights and health. With the strong support of the Kenya’s constitution and the recognition of international convention, adolescents’ sexual and reproductive health must be supported. This can be done by providing access to comprehensive sexuality education; services to prevent, diagnose and treat STIs; and counseling on family planning. It also means empowering young people to know and exercise their rights – including the right to delay marriage and the right to refuse unwanted sexual advances. Indigenous Information network has for along time been active in sexuality education on life skills including STI, HIV, and FGM among others reproductive related issues.
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