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𝗔𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝗦𝗛𝗜𝗙𝗧𝗦 Strengthening Health Systems for Integrated and Transformative SRHR (SHIFTS) is a 7-year initiative that aims to enhance the realization of sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) for women, adolescents and marginalized groups by ensuring they can exercise their rights and access essential sexual and reproductive health (SRH) care, free from stigma, discrimination and systemic barriers. Donor: Global Affairs Canada  Implementing MAs: Association Béninoise pour la Promotion de la Famille (ABPF), Associação Moçambicana para o Desenvolvimento da Família (AMODEFA) and Planned Parenthood Federation of Nigeria (PPFN).  When: 21 March 2025 -31 March 2032 (7 years)  Where:   Benin – Bohicon and Parakou  Mozambique – Zambezia and Gaza   Nigeria – Adamawa, Edo, Enugu, Kaduna, Niger, and Oyo   The SHIFTS Approach  Women, girls and marginalized communities in Mozambique, Benin and Nigeria face persistent gender and health inequities such as high maternal mortality, unmet need for contraception, and higher-than-global-average adolescent birth rates. These issues are compounded by harmful social and gender norms, restricted decision-making power of women and girls over their bodies, and limited integration of SRH care and services into primary healthcare. Additionally, unsafe abortion remains a major contributor to maternal mortality, with stigma, misinformation, and lack of access to safe abortion care, making it more difficult for women and adolescents to access the health services they need.  The SHIFTS project responds to these challenges through a three-pillared approach.  1. Tackling gaps in health systems by scaling up and/or implementing cluster models of care to deliver integrated SRH care.  2. Addressing social and gendered barriers to accessing SRHR care through comprehensive sexuality education and community sensitization.  3. Fostering enabling policy and legal environments that emphasize supporting duty bearers in meeting their obligations and accompanying rights holders in claiming their rights.  SHIFTS is being implemented in partnership with Action Canada for Sexual Health and Rights, the International Planned Parenthood Federation Africa Region (IPPFAR) and experienced Member Associations (MAs) in Benin, Mozambique, and Nigeria. Grounded in and guided by human-rights based approaches and feminist principles, the project’s partners are committed to strengthening the resilience of health systems in the three focus countries to ensure continuity and long-term accessibility of SRH care in times of disruption. 

  From the WISH 2 Team Lead Today, on World Contraception Day, we reaffirm our collective commitment to ensuring that contraception is recognized and realized as a right, a responsibility, and a reality for all. Since its launch in 2007, World Contraception Day has been commemorated every year on 26 September, making 2025 the 19th annual global observance of this important campaign to raise awareness and advance SRHR.  The day reminds us of the power of choice and the transformative impact of SRHR on individuals, families, and communities. Access to safe, voluntary, and high-quality contraception is not only a health imperative, but also a pathway to dignity, equity, and opportunity. Under the WISH 1 (WISH2Action) project, 3.6 million additional family planning users were reached, an estimated 22 million maternal deaths, 4.3 million unsafe abortions, 13.2 million unintended pregnancies, and 19.2 million disability-adjusted life years were averted, a powerful demonstration of the lifesaving impact of sustained investment in SRHR. Building on this momentum, WISH 2 East and Southern Africa, set targets to reach 4.2 million family planning users, with the intention of preventing 3.2 million unintended pregnancies, 1 million unsafe abortions, and 5,600 maternal deaths across seven countries in Eastern and Southern Africa. Since the start of the project, WISH 2 has reached 169,590 annualised clients as at the end of June 2025. Through this project, we remain committed to expanding access to sexual and reproductive health services across Eastern and Southern Africa, with a particular focus on fragile and humanitarian settings where women, adolescents, and marginalised groups face the greatest barriers. By strengthening service delivery, advancing social and behaviour change, advocating for enabling policies, and generating evidence for learning, WISH 2 is ensuring that no one is left behind in the pursuit of sexual and reproductive health and rights. Central to this effort is strong partnership with governments, whose leadership and stewardship are essential for sustaining progress. WISH 2 works hand in hand with national and local authorities to complement their strategies and contribute to country-led priorities for universal access to contraception and broader SRHR. Yet, these gains are under threat. Global funding for SRHR is declining, undermining women’s rights, equity, and agency, and putting millions at risk of preventable harm. As we mark this 19th World Contraception Day, we call on governments, donors, and partners to renew their commitment to SRHR. Together, we can ensure that contraception remains accessible, affordable, and inclusive, empowering every individual to make informed choices about their bodies and futures. On this day, we celebrate the dedication of our partners, country teams including Member Associations, stakeholders who support the cause and frontline providers who work tirelessly to make contraceptive services more inclusive, resilient, and rights based. Together, we are creating a future where every individual, regardless of circumstance, can make informed choices about their reproductive health. Let us continue to learn, innovate, and act so that contraception is recognized not only as a method of family planning, but as a fundamental right for all. Contraception is not just health care, it is a right, a responsibility, and a reality we must protect and advance. Happy World Contraception Day!    

By Moctar Menta  When conflict, climate disasters or epidemics strike, essential health services are often the first to collapse. Yet, the need for sexual and reproductive health (SRH) does not disappear or diminish with humanitarian crises. Instead, in most instances, it becomes more urgent and critical. In these moments, the International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) responds rapidly to ensure that women, adolescents, and other vulnerable populations have access to the care they need to stay healthy and safe.  Between 2024 - 2025, IPPF, through its humanitarian funding mechanisms –Stream 3 and SPRINT, delivered emergency SRH services in over 11 African countries. Stream 3 -which is IPPF’s internal rapid funding tool, and SPRINT –supported by the Australian Government, enabled local IPPF Member Associations (MAs) to act quickly in the face of crises. From conflict zones to flood-hit communities, these responses brought care directly to people, often where no other services were available.  In sub-Saharan Africa, IPPF facilitated more than 215,000 people’s access to SRH and related clinical services during this period. Over 70% of these beneficiaries were women and girls. The range of services included family planning, antenatal and maternal care, HIV and sexually transmitted infection (STI) prevention and management, as well as support for survivors of gender-based violence (GBV). Children under five were also treated for infections and dehydration, especially in areas facing food insecurity or disease outbreaks.    Nigeria  In Nigeria, where floods displaced thousands, IPPF’s MA in Nigeria -the Planned Parenthood Federation of Nigeria (PPFN) reached over 13,000 people in 20 outreach points in Jigawa State. Among them, 4,600 were tested for HIV and more than 1,300 received family planning services, 700 of them for the first time. An emergency care set-up was managed on-site by outreach staff, where emergency cases were handled, including women in labor.  “Reaching flood-affected communities within hours of the alert was key,” said Dr. Paul Odigbo, PPFN Programme Manager. “Women arrived in labor or without access to medication. We had to be there, no matter what.”    Ethiopia  In Ethiopia, where conflict in the Tigray region has disrupted services, more than 45,000 people were reached with SRHR services courtesy of the Family Guidance Association of Ethiopia (FGAE), which is IPPF’s MA in the country. FGAE’s interventions helped avert over 600 unintended pregnancies and more than 130 unsafe abortions. Unintended pregnancies and unsafe abortions are among the leading causes of maternal illness and death in humanitarian settings, where access to contraception and safe care is often severely limited.   Women like Selam, a 31-year-old displaced mother, described how antenatal care and cervical cancer screening brought hope after months without medical access.   “When we were forced to move, we lost everything. But the care from FGAE. The organization gave me hope again,” she said.    South Sudan  South Sudan presented even greater challenges. Resulting from ongoing conflict, economic collapse, and an influx of returnees fleeing violence in Sudan, the country continues to face widespread displacement and strained health systems.   Despite the insecurity and displacement, nearly 15,000 individuals (10,400 female and 4,400 male) were reached with services ranging from GBV care to antenatal support, courtesy of Reproductive Health Association of South Sudan (RHASS) -which is IPPF’s representative in the country. Over 1,800 clients received contraceptives, and 235 births were supported in a mix of services offered by RHASS in collaboration with partner government health facilities.   Mary, a survivor of sexual violence, described how access to counseling and care provided by RHASS health workers helped her begin to heal.   “I wanted to give up,” she said. “But the health workers gave me strength.”     Mozambique  In Mozambique’s Cabo Delgado Province, the district of Mecúfi faced the aftermath of Cyclone Chido, which destroyed homes and significant health infrastructures, among other destructions. In response, Associação Moçambicana para o Desenvolvimento da Família (AMODEFA) -IPPF’s local partner in the country, deployed mobile clinics, delivered dignity kits, and conducted community talks on family planning and gender-based violence prevention.   Over 15,000 people (9,500 female and 5,700 male) received services. Clinical interventions included family planning services, STI treatment, antenatal care, and psychosocial support for GBV survivors, with more than 40 mobile health brigades deployed across isolated communities.   In Chad, despite political tensions and the arrival of thousands of refugees fleeing conflict in Sudan, over 10,000 people received SRH services, including 4,300 who accessed different forms of contraception. IPPF’s local partners in Senegal (Action et Développement (ACDEV); in the Central African Republic (Association Centrafricaine pour le Bien-Être Familial (ACABEF), and in Liberia (Community Healthcare Initiative (CHI) each delivered services to thousands of displaced or flood-affected populations. In Kenya, the Reproductive Health Network Kenya (RHNK) reached over 12,000 people, including many first-time family planning users.    Adaptability measures to ensure service provision  This scale of impact would not have been possible without adaptability measures. In places like Liberia and the Central African Republic (CAR), Member Association staff navigated blocked roads by boats and motorbikes. In South Sudan, outreach teams coordinated with local authorities and security actors to access camps for internally displaced persons (IDPs). Where abortion care was legally restricted, teams focused on post-abortion care, contraception, and counseling.  Social media was also used to raise awareness and mobilize communities. Equally important was the effort to tell these stories. AMODEFA’s communication strategy included publishing over 60 social media posts that highlighted stories of courage and resilience. The visibility helped build trust, encourage health-seeking behavior, and show communities that they were not forgotten. The AMODEFA Facebook page saw engagement increase by more than 230% in just two months.  The results went beyond clinical numbers. In each country, exit strategies were developed to transition emergency services into comprehensive SRH services. In response to emergencies, service delivery points (SDPs) were established in each country to meet immediate sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) needs. As the crises subsided, six SDPs were transitioned into permanent MA static clinics to ensure continued access to essential SRHR services in Nigeria and Kenya. In CAR, three SDPs were successfully transitioned.    Effective partnerships   In South Sudan, eight public health facilities, including Gumbo and Rokon primary healthcare facilities were equipped with supplies, staff training, and service delivery support by RHASS, and later transitioned to government partners for continued SRH care.   In Ethiopia, FGAE established public-private partnerships with government health offices to maintain care beyond the crisis window, including joint service delivery, referral networks, and capacity-building of public health staff.   In CAR, three mobile outreach clinics operated by Association Centrafricaine pour le bien-être familial (ACABEF) were successfully transformed into static service delivery points, ensuring communities continue to access SRH services after the emergency phase.  *For detailed results and country-specific case studies, visit IPPF humanitarian page.    Rights-based humanitarian response  IPPF’s humanitarian work in Africa shows what is possible when response is fast, local, and rights-based. The Stream 3 and SPRINT funding mechanisms proved vital during each crisis, where local IPPF partners delivered timely services in unstable environments. As new emergencies emerge, whether due to climate, conflict, displacement or other unprecedented factors, continued investment is critical.  Indeed, SRH is not a secondary concern during emergencies. It is essential. It prevents maternal deaths, supports survivors of violence, and protects the dignity of people in crisis. With sustained support, IPPF will continue to reach the most vulnerable, saving lives and restoring hope where it’s needed most.  Moctar Menta is the Humanitarian resource person at the IPPF Africa Regional Office 

By Dr. Paul Tochukwu Odigbo Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) remains a significant public health and human rights concern in the West African country of Nigeria. FGM, which involves the partial or total removal of female genitalia for non-medical reasons, violates the rights of women and girls and causes severe physical, psychological, and emotional harm. UNFPA reports that in Nigeria, 25 per cent of women and girls aged 15-49 have undergone some form of FGM. While the practice is mostly performed by traditional excisors (more than 70 per cent), some medical professionals also subject women and girls to this harmful practice. Despite substantial progress that has been made in the country, including legislation outlawing FGM, the practice persists, fueled by cultural, social, and economic factors. This article highlights progress made by the Planned Parenthood Federation of Nigeria (PPFN) towards the elimination of FGM in the country. PPFN’s best practices regarding the elimination of FGM Regarding legislation and policy enforcement, Nigeria has implemented laws to criminalize FGM, such as the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act of 2015, which outlaws the practice nationwide. PPFN acknowledges that legal frameworks are critical in creating accountability and deterring offenders. Notably, at the last Gender and Inclusion summit held in Abuja in 2024, during the high-level ministerial plenary panel session, PPFN raised a concern regarding the proposed repeal of the VAPP Act and how it can affect victims and survivors of gender-based violence. The First Lady of Kwara State, H.E Ambassador Prof. Olufolake Abdulrazaq responded by expressing her similar concern about the matter. She stated that she was taking steps to ensure the repeal does not happen. Unfortunately, enforcement remains challenging. PPFN continuously engages in health education programs that highlight the physical and psychological consequences of FGM, which are key to shifting attitudes. At PPFN, we have used media campaigns, workshops, and community dialogues to raise awareness. During the 16 days of activism in 2024, we organized a walk to raise awareness against all forms of gender-based violence, including FGM. Our campaigns target both men and women, as men often influence decisions regarding FGM in patriarchal communities. Key challenges in eliminating FGM in Nigeria Although the VAPP Act and State laws criminalize FGM, enforcement remains weak in many rural areas due to a lack of resources, awareness, and political will. Additionally, traditional norms and belief are a significant challenge, as FGM is often viewed as a prerequisite for marriage or a marker of social status. In many communities, it is believed to preserve a girl’s chastity and ensure her acceptance in society. In some parts of Nigeria, FGM is now performed by healthcare workers, perpetuating the practice under the guise of safety. This medicalization of FGM creates a false sense of legitimacy. Another significant challenge is the factor of cross-border practices. This happens when families in border communities take girls to neighboring countries with weaker laws to undergo FGM. This only complicates FGM eradication efforts. Many local NGOs and community-based organizations committed to the eradication of the practice also cite the lack of funding and capacity to sustain their anti-FGM initiatives. Need for collaborative approaches to end FGM in Nigeria To eliminate FGM in Nigeria, a multifaceted and collaborative approach is required. The government must ensure that laws banning FGM are effectively enforced, particularly in rural areas. Training for law enforcement officers and judicial systems is crucial. Furthermore, the Nigerian government should work with healthcare associations to train and monitor medical professionals, ensuring they reject and report FGM practices. There is also the need to scale up community-led programmes. Expanding successful initiatives such as public declarations of abandonment and Alternative Rites of Passage can accelerate progress in more communities. To address the cross-border illegalities, there is need for regional cooperation with neighboring countries to curb the practice. Towards this, joint awareness campaigns and border surveillance can be effective tools. International organizations, governments, and donors must continue to support grassroots organizations with the resources needed to educate communities and implement anti-FGM programs. Dr Paul Tochukwu Odigbo is PPFN’s Programme Manager (Service Delivery). Follow IPPF Africa Region on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and You Tube.

By Benedicta Oyedayo Oyewole The 17th of May marks a significant day for LGBTQI+ persons worldwide, as it is celebrated annually as The International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT) since 2005. This date was chosen to honor the World Health Organization's pivotal decision in 1990 to recognize and validate the diversity of sexuality and gender experiences.  Since 2005, it has been celebrated globally, including in several nations across the African continent, serving as both a reminder of the struggles faced by sexual and gender diverse persons and a marker for celebrating progress. This year's IDAHOBIT theme, "No one left behind: equality, freedom, and justice for all," aims to encourage advocacy and celebration in various forms, including the amplification of African American poet and social activist Audre Lorde's quote, "We do not live a single issued life." This theme underscores the importance of unity and intersectional advocacy through solidarity, aiming to create a world where no one is left behind. As stated in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, "All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights." However, within the African context, we are seeing an increase in misunderstanding and rollback on the human rights of LGBTIQ+, including intersex persons, in certain parts of the continent.  In a recent discussion with Jennifer from Intersex Nigeria, we explored what IDAHOBIT signifies for intersex persons and the ongoing advocacy efforts at national and regional levels. Jennifer is the Program Officer-Diversity and Inclusion at Intersex Nigeria, an intersex-led non-governmental organization that advocates for the diverse experiences of intersex persons while recognizing their intersectional identities.   There is a cloud of misconception surrounding the realities of intersex persons. During the discussion, Jennifer highlights the staggering complexity within the intersex spectrum, comprising at least 40 distinct variations. One prevalent misperception revolves around the notion of a "true hermaphrodite," a term deemed derogatory within the intersex community. Contrary to widely held belief, intersex people do not possess two fully functional sets of genitalia. Rather, their genital anatomy may exhibit variations that defy the binary dichotomy strictly male or female, leading to ambiguity.  Jennifer acknowledges that Nigeria remains in the early stages of understanding intersex   persons. Anecdotally, approximately 80% of intersex persons would rather self-medicate than visit a hospital, because of the experiences of people close to them or their own experience. Despite ample evidence of human rights violations, including intersex genital mutilation and unethical medical procedures without consent, intersex issues are not nationally recognized as human rights concerns within Nigeria. Additionally, there is a notable absence of legal and policy representation for intersex persons in the country.  Despite the challenging circumstances faced by intersex persons in Nigeria, Intersex Nigeria has adopted innovative approaches to thrive and humanize intersex experiences within the nation. Through partnerships and collaboration with stakeholders, as well as educational initiatives targeting healthcare practitioners, engagement with human rights commissions, and utilization of traditional mainstream and social media platforms, Intersex Nigeria has made significant strides.   Some notable achievement is the production of documentaries, such as "What About Us?" that was produced in partnership with Intersex South Africa and "In-between Sexes" was a collaborative production involving other organizations. These documentaries aim to illuminate the realities of intersex issues through firsthand accounts from intersex people. According to Jennifer, these materials highlight existing gaps in support for intersex persons and advocate for necessary actions to raise their rights awareness and visibility.   Furthermore, Intersex Nigeria provided training sessions for mainstream media personnel to improve their understanding and reporting of intersex issues. However, despite these efforts, national media regulations often hinder accurate coverage of intersex topics. Consequently, Intersex Nigeria has turned to social media and leveraging grassroots media as a platform to reshape the narrative and ensure accurate representation of intersex persons, advocating for the use of appropriate language that aligns with their identity and experiences.  When asked about the proudest milestones within the Intersex movement, Jennifer shared two significant achievements. Firstly, she highlighted the successful staging of the play "World Untold: Echoes of Silence," a groundbreaking event that united diverse stakeholders to immerse themselves in the experiences of intersex persons. Secondly, Jennifer expressed joy in receiving outreach from parents seeking support upon the birth of an intersex child. She views this as remarkable progress compared to the national status of intersex persons just a few years ago.   The theme for this year's IDAHOBIT, "No one left behind: equality, freedom, and justice for all," deeply resonates with her as it emphasizes an intersectional approach to ensure inclusivity for all. She believes that freedom and justice extend beyond mere concepts and encompass access to spaces and resources essential for the development of marginalized communities. This, she emphasizes, is crucial not only for the intersex community but for the entire LGBTQI+ community.  Reflecting on IDAHOBIT 2024, Jennifer emphasizes, "We are a diverse people, and there's no one-size-fits-all approach.” It is crucial for people to recognize the diversity within the intersex community. Educating oneself and seeking knowledge about intersex experiences is vital to fostering inclusion. Every effort, no matter how small, contributes to ensuring that intersex persons are acknowledged and supported. “We are all human beings deserving of being heard, included, and treated with justice, equality, and freedom from discrimination and stigma."  As we mark IDAHOBIT 2024, the ongoing research and advocacy efforts by intersex organizations in Africa, along with our continued amplification of intersex experiences, ensures that the voices and experiences of intersex persons remain prominent, heard, and respected during this commemoration. Let us boldly embody the theme of "No one left behind: equality, freedom, and justice for all" in our celebrations by recognizing the importance of intersex persons in IDAHOBIT because Intersex belongs in IDAHOBIT! And you can start by visiting InterAct. 

Training co-created with How To Use Abortion Pill Training endorsed by the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) Training course complete with quizzes and an option to download a certificate upon successful completion Course comes as World Health Organisation (WHO) issues new guidelines on abortion care and will help put the WHO guidelines into practice globally Over 25 million unsafe abortions occur each year From 2015 to 2019 in Kenya, there were 2,380,000 pregnancies annually. Of these, 1,450,000 pregnancies were unintended and 551,000 ended in abortion Landmark High Court of Kenya ruling in March 2022 affirms abortion care as a fundamental right under the Constitution of Kenya Nairobi – 20th September 2022 – International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) and HowToUseAbortionPill.org have developed a free online medical abortion training course to equip healthcare workers with the necessary skills to provide care for women seeking medical abortion up to 13 weeks’ gestation. The course is aimed at the full range of providers, including physicians, midwives, pharmacists, medical students and community health workers. The course, which has been endorsed by the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO), is a seven-lesson video series accessible via the link https://elearning.howtouseabortionpill.org. It covers an overview of abortion care; how to support a medical abortion; symptoms, side effects and complications; and aftercare. The training is framed around four principles of care: person-centred care, rights-based care, quality, and privacy and confidentiality. “Abortion care continues to be left off medical training curriculums,” said Mallah Tabot, Lead SRHR Programming at IPPF Africa Region. “This online course will fill a critical gap in the education of many health workers. It has the potential to significantly increase the number of health workers with the skills and knowledge to provide abortion care, especially in low-resource settings, and thereby increase the number of women supported to safely end a pregnancy.” Unsafe abortion remains a serious global threat to women's health and safety, causing an estimated 7 million hospitalizations and up to 13% of all maternal deaths worldwide each year. Medical abortion is a non-invasive method using two pills - mifepristone and misoprostol - or misoprostol alone.  Medical abortion is safe and effective and is recommended by the Word Health Organisation (WHO). Between 2015 and 2019 in Kenya, there were a total of 2,380,000 pregnancies annually. Of these, 1,450,000 pregnancies were unintended and 551,000 ended in abortion. in Nigeria, there were a total of 10,500,000 pregnancies annually with 2,990,000 unintended and 1,430,000 ended in abortion. In both countries, abortion is legal to preserve the pregnant person’s health. However, a majority of abortions are carried out by unqualified practitioners who run unsafe clinics. “Research shows that when women cannot access safe abortion care, they often seek unsafe methods,”  said Rebecca Wilkins, Technical Lead, Abortion at IPPF.  “This training course provides the information and resources necessary for health workers to support women who choose to have a safe abortion with pills in early pregnancy either within or outside a clinical setting.” The course is hosted on a login-based web portal which can be accessed from desktop or mobile and is structured to be an interactive learning experience, complete with quizzes and an option to download a certificate upon successful completion. In March this year, WHO issued new guidelines on abortion care.  The updated guidelines contain more than 50 recommendations covering clinical practice, health service delivery, and policy and legal actions including ensuring access to quality medical abortion pills. The new online training course is aligned to the clinical protocols recommended in the WHO guidelines. A landmark ruling by the High Court of Kenya in Malindi this year affirmed the right to abortion as a fundamental right under the Kenyan Constitution.  The ruling in a case filed by the Center for Reproductive Rights and Reproductive Health Network Kenya (RHNK) in 2020 against government officials involved the arrest of a minor and a clinician. It has set a precedent against arbitrary arrests and prosecution of patients and health care providers for seeking or offering abortion services. Such arrests and prosecutions are now deemed illegal according to the new ruling. ENDs  For further information, download the media kit HERE or contact: PR Consultant Njeri Wangari              Tel: +254 (0)722353657, e-mail: [email protected] IPPF: Mahmoud Garga                     Tel.   +254 (0) 704626920, e-mail: [email protected]    Catherine Kilfedder                                                         e-mail: [email protected]   ABOUT IPPF AFRICA REGION (IPPFAR) The International Planned Parenthood Federation Africa Region (IPPFAR) is one of the leading sexual and reproductive health (SRH) service delivery organizations in Africa and a leading sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) advocacy voice in the region. Headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya, the overarching goal of IPPFAR is to increase access to SRHR services to the most vulnerable youth, men and women, in sub-Saharan Africa.  Supported by thousands of volunteers, IPPFAR tackles the continent's growing SRHR challenges through a network of Member Associations (MAs) in 40 countries. We do this by developing our MAs into efficient entities with the capacity to deliver and sustain high-quality, youth-focused and gender-sensitive services.  We work with Governments, the African Union, Regional Economic Commissions, the Pan-African Parliament, and United Nations bodies, among others, to expand political and financial commitments to sexual and reproductive health and rights in Africa.  Learn more about us on our website. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.

IPPF collaborates with UNAIDS and The PACT to implement ACT!2030 (formerly ACT!2015), a youth-led social action initiative which engages young people in 12 countries with advocacy and accountability around the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and other SRHR agreements/frameworks. ACT!2030 was initiated in 2013 as a way to increase youth participation in the negotiations leading up to the adoption of the post-2015 development agenda, and for two years focused on establishing alliances of youth-led and youth-serving organisations in 12 countries across the world. The project is currently in Phase 4, which runs until the end of 2017, and aims to establish youth-led, data-driven accountability mechanisms to ensure youth engagement with the implementation of the SDGs and build an evidence base for advocacy. Ultimately, Phase 4 of ACT!2030 seeks to identify, assess and address key policy barriers to young people’s sexual and reproductive data by using existing data, supplemented by youth-collected data, to advocate and lobby for policy change. This phase involves four main activities: indicator advocacy (persuading decision makers to adopt youth-friendly SRHR and HIV indicators, including on things like comprehensive sexuality education (CSE) and access to youth-friendly services, into national/global reporting mechanisms); evidence gathering (creating national databases on quality of and access to youth-friendly services and CSE); communications (transforming this data and evidence into communications pieces that can be used to advocacy and lobby at national and international level); and global exchange (facilitating global visibility to share advocacy and engagement learnings and increase youth-led accountability in global and regional processes). ACT!2030 is implemented by national alliances of youth organisations in 12 countries: Algeria, Bulgaria, India, Jamaica, Kenya, Mexico, Nigeria, Philippines, South Africa, Uganda, Zambia and Zimbabwe.  

By Dr. Abubakar OKAI AKU Aku and Maryanne W. WAWERU World Cancer Day takes place every year on 4 February and is dedicated to raising the awareness of cancer and to encourage its prevention, detection and treatment. This year’s theme is “Close the care gap”. The campaign raises awareness about the lack of equity in cancer care and highlights barriers that exist for many people in accessing services and receiving the care they need. In this article, we highlight the work of IPPF’s Member Association in Nigeria, Planned Parenthood Federation of Nigeria (PPFN), in closing the care gap in the country. While going about her business at the marketplace, Mrs. Olufemi came across information about cervical cancer screening services offered at the Planned Parenthood Federation of Nigeria (PPFN) clinic in Lagos. Curious, and wanting to take advantage of this opportunity, she decided to visit the clinic. Before doing so, she requested her friend Mrs. Emeka to accompany her, just in case the results were not good, and she would need a shoulder to lean on. At the PPFN clinic, Mrs. Olufemi underwent screening for cervical cancer, and could not hide her joy when her results came back bearing good news. She was tested using the Visual Inspection of the Cervix with Acetic Acid (VIA) method, which is an inexpensive, simple test that is sensitive to detecting precancerous lesions, while providing instant results. Motivated by her friend’s actions and the good results, Mrs. Emeka decided to get tested as well. Her results, however, revealed the presence of pre-cancerous lesions in her cervix. She was devastated. Early cancer detection saves lives Dr. Abubakar Okai Aku, a PPFN healthcare service provider reassured a distraught Mrs. Emeka by informing her that early detection and diagnosis of cervical cancer may offer favourable prognosis and improve survival. However, she was too overwhelmed with emotion to pay attention. Thankfully, her friend Mrs. Olufemi helped calm her down, wiping the tears off her cheeks, and comforting her. Since her diagnosis was in the pre-cancerous stage, Dr. Abubakar referred Mrs. Emeka for cryotherapy treatment, also available at the PPFN Lagos clinic. According to Dr. Abubakar, cryotherapy is a minimally invasive treatment method that involves the freezing of the abnormal cells in the cervix, creating way for healthy cells to grow back. This approach, used by IPPF’s Member Associations that offer cervical cancer services is aligned with national protocols and makes use of existing local infrastructure. Dr. Abubakar adds that the intervention is replicable and scalable nationwide. Successful treatment Mrs. Emeka immediately took up the cryotherapy treatment as advised by Dr. Abubakar. Three months later, she returned for a scheduled follow up visit at the clinic and all was found to be well. She had successfully responded to treatment. Despite having precancerous lesions, Ms. Emeka did not develop cervical cancer because of early detection. She always thanks her friend Mrs. Olufemi for her role in helping her realize her risk for developing cervical cancer. Today, Ms. Emeka is an advocate of cervical cancer screening in her community and uses all available opportunities to talk to women about the need for - and importance of - cervical cancer screening and respective treatment. PPFN’s cervical cancer intervention programs  Between 2012–2017, PPFN was part of the Cervical Cancer Screening and Preventative Therapy (CCSPT) initiative, which was aimed at improving reproductive health outcomes for women. The project significantly contributed to reducing the growing cervical cancer burden in Nigeria. By July 2017, a total of 1,145,525 women had been screened for cervical cancer, with 1,458 positive cases, of which 1,321 of them receiving cryotherapy treatment through PPFN healthcare service providers.  When the CCSPT project ended, cervical cancer services were integrated into regular PPFN services. In 2021, over 1 million women were screened for cervical cancer by IPPFAR’s member association in Nigeria. In 2014, the Federal Ministry of Health set up a cervical cancer screening technical working group for cancer prevention to scale up cervical cancer screening in the country, of which PPFN is a member. PPFN works closely with various partners, among them the National Cancer Control Program of the Federal Ministry of Health to achieve its goals. PPFN is committed to addressing the cancer burden in Nigeria, including the use of digital and other technology to increase people’s access to reproductive health services, and closing the equity gap in cancer care in the country. Dr. Abubakar Okai Aku is the Executive Director, Planned Parenthood Federation of Nigeria (PPFN). Maryanne W. Waweru is the Communications Officer, IPPFAR. Also read: Accessing Cervical Cancer Services and Healthcare in Nigeria For more updates on our work, follow IPPF Africa Region - Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and You Tube.

By Maryanne W. Waweru Cervical cancer, a type of cancer that occurs in the cells of the cervix, is ranked as the fourth most common cancer among women globally, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). About 90% of the new cases and deaths worldwide in 2020 occurred in low and middle-income countries. Countries in sub-Saharan Africa experience a disproportionate burden of the disease, where 19 of the top 20 countries with the highest cervical cancer burden were in sub-Saharan Africa in 2018. In the West African country of Nigeria, over 12,000 new cervical cancer cases are diagnosed annually (estimations for 2020) and it is the second most common female cancer in women aged 15 - 44 years in the country. IPPF’s Member Association in Nigeria, the Planned Parenthood Federation of Nigeria (PPFN) is involved in various efforts aimed at increasing access to cervical screening and treatment in the country. PPFN’s efforts are geared towards closing the gap in cancer care in the country, complementing Government and other stakeholders’ efforts to increase access to life-saving preventive services, diagnosis, treatment and care. Recipients of PPFN’s cervical cancer services include women living with HIV, who are six times more likely to develop cervical cancer compared to women without HIV. PPFN uses the Visual Inspection of the Cervix with Acetic Acid (VIA) screening and cryotherapy treatment approaches across its 45 clinics spread over 36 states in Nigeria. It also offers these services in over 100 associate health facilities across the country. Eliminating the cost barrier Dr. Abubakar Okai Aku, a PPFN healthcare service provider says cancer services at all PPFN and associate health facilities are offered at an affordable, subsidized cost which enables more women to access the services. High medical fees are a significant barrier to people’s access to healthcare. Additionally, PPFN conducts mobile outreach clinics offering a wide range of sexual reproductive health services, including cancer services, to vulnerable communities in hard-to-reach, poor and marginalized areas. These areas, mostly in the countryside, have no proper road infrastructure and have few and poorly equipped health facilities. In some areas, insecurity challenges hinder access to health services. “PPFN accesses these areas by working with local Governmental authorities, the primary healthcare system and local community structures that include community health volunteers, chiefs, religious leaders and other gatekeepers to enhance our outreach work,” says Dr. Abubakar. He notes that since many women in these areas cannot afford the services, PPFN offers the services for free. Referrals are also made to PPFN’s nearest static clinics, as well as Government health facilities - with whom the organization collaborates closely.   Husband’s permission to access health services PPFN’s work in the community is however not without challenges. According to Dr. Abubakar, they must contend with cultural factors that hinder women’s access to reproductive health services. For example, some men do not allow their female partners or household members to go to the clinic without their permission and when they allow them to, they would only allow it under certain conditions. “The husbands tell the service providers to first come to their house and explain the services they wish to offer to their wife or wives. Sometimes they grant permission, other times they don’t. Many women in rural communities are often not in full control  of their own health. Since many don’t work, they not only have to ask their husbands for permission to go to the clinic or attend mobile outreaches, but they also need money for transport and for treatment. To this end, PPFN works with male champions in the community, sensitizing them on the need to empower women and enabling them to take charge of their own health,” says Dr. Abubakar. Dr. Abubakar also notes that misinformation, stigma and ostracization around women’s cancers also prevents many women from seeking cancer screening, treatment and care services. “We have seen women present with cancers at an advanced stage, leading to negative health outcomes. PPFN diligently works with local community structures to dispel myths and rumors about cancer, educating them and encouraging them to seek prevention and treatment services,” he says. PPFN is committed to addressing gaps with regard to cervical cancer prevention, treatment and care services in the country. Learn more: Closing the Cervical Cancer Care Gap in Nigeria. Maryanne W. Waweru is the Communications Officer, IPPF Africa Regional Office. For more updates on our work, follow IPPF Africa Region on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and You Tube.

In order to increase African youth awareness on specific issues related to sexual and reproductive health and rights, IPPFAR engaged the services of Influencer Aproko Dr. for a 1-month digital campaign including the production and dissemination of various video content. This video highlights the creative session between Dr Aproko and the Youth Action Movement of Nigeria on sexual reproductive health and education. The International Planned Parenthood Federation Africa Region (IPPFAR) is the leading sexual and reproductive health (SRH) service delivery organization in Africa, and the leading sexual and reproductive health and rights advocacy voice in the region. Headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya, the overarching goal of IPPFAR is to increase access to SRHR services to the most vulnerable youth, men and women in sub-Saharan Africa.