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Latest news from IPPF

Spotlight

A selection of news from across the Federation

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Afrique

News item

La région Afrique de l'IPPF est à la recherche de personnes talentueuses pour soutenir son travail.

Dans le cadre de sa stratégie, le bureau régional africain de l'IPPF recrute pour plusieurs postes au Kenya et en Côte d'Ivoire.
Lucien_Kouakou_and_Genet_Mengistu_of_FGAE
news item

| 31 January 2017

IPPF Africa Regional Director Visits Family Guidance Association of Ethiopia (FGAE)

By Maryanne W. Waweru Monday 30 January 2017, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia The IPPF Africa Region Director Mr. Lucien Kouakou today paid a visit to the IPPF Member Association in Ethiopia –Family Guidance Association of Ethiopia (FGAE). During his visit, Mr. Kouakou met with FGAE members of staff including the Executive Director Ms. Genet Mengistu, whom he congratulated for their remarkable work in providing quality sexual reproductive health services to millions of Ethiopians. Mr. Kouakou, who is in the capital city of Addis Ababa attending activities around the 28th AU Summit, encouraged the members of staff to carry on with their commendable work. “We are proud of FGAE. Just last year, the organization celebrated 50 years of exemplary service and success in Ethiopia. FGAE is recognized as the pioneer organization for the introduction of family planning in the country, and five decades later, it is one of the leading providers of comprehensive, integrated, quality and gender-sensitive sexual reproductive health programs and services focusing on youth, underserved and vulnerable populations in Ethiopia. In addition, the success of FGAE’s Learning Center, which works closely with the Government and other partners in building the capacity of healthcare providers in Ethiopia through provision of needs-based quality sexual reproductive health training, is admirable. Indeed, the laudable success of FGAE is to be emulated not only in Ethiopia, but across Africa,” he said. Mr. Kouakou also assured FGAE of IPPF’s continued technical, financial and material support in regards to achievements of the organization’s goals. He further encouraged the Member Association to strive to establish and maintain formidable partnerships with other development stakeholders in the country, among them the Government, international, regional and national organizations, as well as local grassroots entities. “If we are to achieve our goals for sustainable development, then we must embrace the partnership of other organizations that share in our vision and the vision of ‘the Africa we Want’. When organizations work together, then they are able to accelerate development goals of the country and the continent, he said. The Regional Director further encouraged the Member Association to step up its efforts in resource mobilization, especially from domestic sources. “The African continent must steer its own development. We have to drive our own development agenda by investing our resources into innovative development-driven initiatives. Funding our own programmes will help avert some of the challenges that many development institutions face today –such as dwindling international donor funds or complete cut-back of funds. It is time for Africa to support Africa’s development through ventures such as domestic funding,” he said. In July last year, IPPF Africa Region launched the African Citizens Initiative (ACI) for sexual and reproductive health, which is a peer-to-peer fundraising campaign that aligns with the Africa Union’s Agenda 2063 commitment to the principle of self-reliance as well as the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals. The FGAE Executive Director, Ms. Genet Mengistu reiterated FGAE’s commitment to serving millions of Ethiopian men, women, youth and children through its unmatched services. She further reiterated the Regional Director’s call for the establishment of strategic partnerships with other development players towards the achievement of the organization’s goals. “We will endeavor to seek more partnerships at all levels, as this will help boost the delivery of our wide range of services. While in Addis Ababa, among key meetings that the Regional Director has participated in is the Forum of African Parliamentarians on Population and Development (FPA) side event, in which he called for more investment in family planning, girls and young people in the realization of harnessing the demographic dividend. He also called on African Parliamentarians to deliver on their commitments to the Dakar Declaration, in their capacity as key influencers. “Parliamentarians have the ability to influence their colleagues to push for the support and implementation of policies and legislations, especially those related to youth, health, population and development. They can call for more budgetary allocation to related Ministries such as those of Youth, Gender and Social Affairs, Health, Education Planning and Development, as well as other institutions that focus on the youth and their reproductive health. They can also take the lead in seeking innovative ways of mobilizing resources at the local level that would champion population and related issues. Seeking African solutions to African problems through domestic funding is one way to realizing Africa’s development, and we count on our Parliamentarians to champion this cause,” he said. Read the full article here: African Parliamentarians are Key to the Realization of the Demographic Dividend Story by Maryanne W. Waweru. For more updates on our work, follow us on Facebook and Twitter

Lucien_Kouakou_and_Genet_Mengistu_of_FGAE
news_item

| 30 January 2017

IPPF Africa Regional Director Visits Family Guidance Association of Ethiopia (FGAE)

By Maryanne W. Waweru Monday 30 January 2017, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia The IPPF Africa Region Director Mr. Lucien Kouakou today paid a visit to the IPPF Member Association in Ethiopia –Family Guidance Association of Ethiopia (FGAE). During his visit, Mr. Kouakou met with FGAE members of staff including the Executive Director Ms. Genet Mengistu, whom he congratulated for their remarkable work in providing quality sexual reproductive health services to millions of Ethiopians. Mr. Kouakou, who is in the capital city of Addis Ababa attending activities around the 28th AU Summit, encouraged the members of staff to carry on with their commendable work. “We are proud of FGAE. Just last year, the organization celebrated 50 years of exemplary service and success in Ethiopia. FGAE is recognized as the pioneer organization for the introduction of family planning in the country, and five decades later, it is one of the leading providers of comprehensive, integrated, quality and gender-sensitive sexual reproductive health programs and services focusing on youth, underserved and vulnerable populations in Ethiopia. In addition, the success of FGAE’s Learning Center, which works closely with the Government and other partners in building the capacity of healthcare providers in Ethiopia through provision of needs-based quality sexual reproductive health training, is admirable. Indeed, the laudable success of FGAE is to be emulated not only in Ethiopia, but across Africa,” he said. Mr. Kouakou also assured FGAE of IPPF’s continued technical, financial and material support in regards to achievements of the organization’s goals. He further encouraged the Member Association to strive to establish and maintain formidable partnerships with other development stakeholders in the country, among them the Government, international, regional and national organizations, as well as local grassroots entities. “If we are to achieve our goals for sustainable development, then we must embrace the partnership of other organizations that share in our vision and the vision of ‘the Africa we Want’. When organizations work together, then they are able to accelerate development goals of the country and the continent, he said. The Regional Director further encouraged the Member Association to step up its efforts in resource mobilization, especially from domestic sources. “The African continent must steer its own development. We have to drive our own development agenda by investing our resources into innovative development-driven initiatives. Funding our own programmes will help avert some of the challenges that many development institutions face today –such as dwindling international donor funds or complete cut-back of funds. It is time for Africa to support Africa’s development through ventures such as domestic funding,” he said. In July last year, IPPF Africa Region launched the African Citizens Initiative (ACI) for sexual and reproductive health, which is a peer-to-peer fundraising campaign that aligns with the Africa Union’s Agenda 2063 commitment to the principle of self-reliance as well as the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals. The FGAE Executive Director, Ms. Genet Mengistu reiterated FGAE’s commitment to serving millions of Ethiopian men, women, youth and children through its unmatched services. She further reiterated the Regional Director’s call for the establishment of strategic partnerships with other development players towards the achievement of the organization’s goals. “We will endeavor to seek more partnerships at all levels, as this will help boost the delivery of our wide range of services. While in Addis Ababa, among key meetings that the Regional Director has participated in is the Forum of African Parliamentarians on Population and Development (FPA) side event, in which he called for more investment in family planning, girls and young people in the realization of harnessing the demographic dividend. He also called on African Parliamentarians to deliver on their commitments to the Dakar Declaration, in their capacity as key influencers. “Parliamentarians have the ability to influence their colleagues to push for the support and implementation of policies and legislations, especially those related to youth, health, population and development. They can call for more budgetary allocation to related Ministries such as those of Youth, Gender and Social Affairs, Health, Education Planning and Development, as well as other institutions that focus on the youth and their reproductive health. They can also take the lead in seeking innovative ways of mobilizing resources at the local level that would champion population and related issues. Seeking African solutions to African problems through domestic funding is one way to realizing Africa’s development, and we count on our Parliamentarians to champion this cause,” he said. Read the full article here: African Parliamentarians are Key to the Realization of the Demographic Dividend Story by Maryanne W. Waweru. For more updates on our work, follow us on Facebook and Twitter

IPPF responds to the Global Gag rule
news item

| 29 January 2017

The Global Gag Rule: IPPF's Projects at Risk

What is the Global GAG Rule? The Mexico City Policy, known as the Global Gag Rule (GGR), denies US funding to organiztions like IPPF if they use money from other donors to provide abortion services, counselling or referrals—even if abortion is legal in a country.  The rule blocks critical funding for health services like contraception, maternal health, and HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment for any organization that refuses to sign up to it.  When it has been enacted by previous Republican Presidents, evidence has shown that the rule has not reduced the number of abortions; rather, by eliminating access to contraception, it has led to more unintended pregnancies and more unsafe abortions.      Related Article: IPPF Speaks out Against the Global Gag Rule How will the Global GAG Rule affect IPPF? IPPF's services apply an integrated approach. This means that any funding the federation loses could have a knock-on effect on array of services.   For example, people who are getting voluntary family planning information, education and services may also need other types of healthcare like HIV testing and treatment, cervical cancer screening, infertility support or delivering maternal health services in humanitarian settings. Our integrated approach also covers work on sexual and gender based violence like rape, female genital mutilation and early and forced marriage. What will Happen? As a global SRH service delivery organization, IPPF has been partnering with USAID, the largest global voluntary FP donor for decades to increase access to reproductive health services.   Currently, millions of men and women in the poorest and hardest to reach communities are accessing SRH services due to USAID support. With the GGR reinstated, many of these people will no longer have access to essential reproductive health services. Related Article: IPPF: Why we will not Sign the Global Gag Rule

IPPF responds to the Global Gag rule
news_item

| 29 January 2017

The Global Gag Rule: IPPF's Projects at Risk

What is the Global GAG Rule? The Mexico City Policy, known as the Global Gag Rule (GGR), denies US funding to organiztions like IPPF if they use money from other donors to provide abortion services, counselling or referrals—even if abortion is legal in a country.  The rule blocks critical funding for health services like contraception, maternal health, and HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment for any organization that refuses to sign up to it.  When it has been enacted by previous Republican Presidents, evidence has shown that the rule has not reduced the number of abortions; rather, by eliminating access to contraception, it has led to more unintended pregnancies and more unsafe abortions.      Related Article: IPPF Speaks out Against the Global Gag Rule How will the Global GAG Rule affect IPPF? IPPF's services apply an integrated approach. This means that any funding the federation loses could have a knock-on effect on array of services.   For example, people who are getting voluntary family planning information, education and services may also need other types of healthcare like HIV testing and treatment, cervical cancer screening, infertility support or delivering maternal health services in humanitarian settings. Our integrated approach also covers work on sexual and gender based violence like rape, female genital mutilation and early and forced marriage. What will Happen? As a global SRH service delivery organization, IPPF has been partnering with USAID, the largest global voluntary FP donor for decades to increase access to reproductive health services.   Currently, millions of men and women in the poorest and hardest to reach communities are accessing SRH services due to USAID support. With the GGR reinstated, many of these people will no longer have access to essential reproductive health services. Related Article: IPPF: Why we will not Sign the Global Gag Rule

Grace_Banda_Zambia
news item

| 28 January 2017

“We Count on our African Parliamentarians to Push the Youth Reproductive Health Agenda Forward” –Grace Banda

Grace Banda, a young lady from Zambia has called on African Parliamentarians to exercise their role in ensuring that the health concerns of Africa’s youth are prioritized. “African countries must honor their commitments to the Abuja Declaration, as this will make tremendous improvements in the health sector, and more so those touching on adolescent and young people’s sexual reproductive health. As Africa’s youth, we urge our Parliamentarians to hold their governments to account on this pledge. They have the voice and the power to push for the realization of this commitment, as well as ensuring that other laws and policies touching on youth and sexual reproductive health are implemented in a timely and effective manner. Our African Parliamentarians are key to the achievement of Africa’s development goals, including the harnessing of the demographic dividend which calls for investments in youth,” said Ms. Banda, a 23 year-old Youth Action Movement (YAM) member from Zambia and an advocate against Child Early and Forced Marriage (CEFM) among African girls. She made these remarks while addressing members of the Forum of African Parliamentarians on Population and Development (FPA) during a side event ahead of the 28th African Union summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. In April 2001, the African Union countries met and pledged to set a target of allocating at least 15% of their annual budget to improve the health sector and urged donor countries to scale up support. However, years later, many of these countries are yet to meet their targets. Parliamentarians can ensure that these commitments are implemented. In her speech, Ms. Banda also called on Parliamentarians to assist in ensuring that adolescents and young people have access to age-appropriate sexuality information, and that they can be able to access reproductive health services in a youth-friendly manner. “Many adolescents and youth make poor decisions about their sexuality because they lack accurate information. They are also not able to access contraceptive services because health service providers are not sensitive and accommodative to their needs. There are also many prohibitive policies that prevent young people from accessing these services, and which, if reviewed, will avert poor health outcomes among them such as teenage pregnancies, school dropouts and Sexually Transmitted Infections (including HIV) among others. We call on our Parliamentarians to push for the removal of such policies and development of supportive ones that will enable young people to live healthy and productive lives, which will be a great plus for Africa’s development,” she said. Speaking at the same forum, IPPF Africa Region Director Mr. Lucien Kouakou, emphasized that indeed, Parliamentarians are instrumental in harnessing the demographic dividend, as they are greatly involved in the formulation of various policies and legislations that pertain to the country’s development. “Parliamentarians have the capacity to influence their colleagues to push for the support and implementation of policies and legislations, especially those related to youth, health, population and development. They can call for more budgetary allocation to related Ministries, such as those of Youth, Gender and Social Affairs, Health, Education Planning and Development, as well as other institutions that focus on the youth and their reproductive health. They can also take the lead in seeking innovative ways of mobilizing resources at the local level that would champion population and related issues. Seeking African solutions to African problems through domestic funding is one way to realizing Africa’s development, and we count on our Parliamentarians to champion this cause,” he said. Story by Maryanne W. Waweru, IPPF Africa Region. For more updates on our work, follow IPPF Africa Region on Facebook and Twitter

Grace_Banda_Zambia
news_item

| 28 January 2017

“We Count on our African Parliamentarians to Push the Youth Reproductive Health Agenda Forward” –Grace Banda

Grace Banda, a young lady from Zambia has called on African Parliamentarians to exercise their role in ensuring that the health concerns of Africa’s youth are prioritized. “African countries must honor their commitments to the Abuja Declaration, as this will make tremendous improvements in the health sector, and more so those touching on adolescent and young people’s sexual reproductive health. As Africa’s youth, we urge our Parliamentarians to hold their governments to account on this pledge. They have the voice and the power to push for the realization of this commitment, as well as ensuring that other laws and policies touching on youth and sexual reproductive health are implemented in a timely and effective manner. Our African Parliamentarians are key to the achievement of Africa’s development goals, including the harnessing of the demographic dividend which calls for investments in youth,” said Ms. Banda, a 23 year-old Youth Action Movement (YAM) member from Zambia and an advocate against Child Early and Forced Marriage (CEFM) among African girls. She made these remarks while addressing members of the Forum of African Parliamentarians on Population and Development (FPA) during a side event ahead of the 28th African Union summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. In April 2001, the African Union countries met and pledged to set a target of allocating at least 15% of their annual budget to improve the health sector and urged donor countries to scale up support. However, years later, many of these countries are yet to meet their targets. Parliamentarians can ensure that these commitments are implemented. In her speech, Ms. Banda also called on Parliamentarians to assist in ensuring that adolescents and young people have access to age-appropriate sexuality information, and that they can be able to access reproductive health services in a youth-friendly manner. “Many adolescents and youth make poor decisions about their sexuality because they lack accurate information. They are also not able to access contraceptive services because health service providers are not sensitive and accommodative to their needs. There are also many prohibitive policies that prevent young people from accessing these services, and which, if reviewed, will avert poor health outcomes among them such as teenage pregnancies, school dropouts and Sexually Transmitted Infections (including HIV) among others. We call on our Parliamentarians to push for the removal of such policies and development of supportive ones that will enable young people to live healthy and productive lives, which will be a great plus for Africa’s development,” she said. Speaking at the same forum, IPPF Africa Region Director Mr. Lucien Kouakou, emphasized that indeed, Parliamentarians are instrumental in harnessing the demographic dividend, as they are greatly involved in the formulation of various policies and legislations that pertain to the country’s development. “Parliamentarians have the capacity to influence their colleagues to push for the support and implementation of policies and legislations, especially those related to youth, health, population and development. They can call for more budgetary allocation to related Ministries, such as those of Youth, Gender and Social Affairs, Health, Education Planning and Development, as well as other institutions that focus on the youth and their reproductive health. They can also take the lead in seeking innovative ways of mobilizing resources at the local level that would champion population and related issues. Seeking African solutions to African problems through domestic funding is one way to realizing Africa’s development, and we count on our Parliamentarians to champion this cause,” he said. Story by Maryanne W. Waweru, IPPF Africa Region. For more updates on our work, follow IPPF Africa Region on Facebook and Twitter

Lucien Koakou, IPPF Africa Region Director
news item

| 26 January 2017

African Parliamentarians are Key to the Realization of the Demographic Dividend

By Maryanne W. Waweru Thursday 26 January 2017, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia Investment in family planning, girls and young women, and investments in young people are crucial elements in Africa’s quest to harnessing the demographic dividend. Mr. Lucien Kouakou, the IPPFAR Regional Director says the potential of Africa to achieve its desired development status will be enhanced if countries place more emphasis on the Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) of its citizens, with a particular emphasis on young people.   “When the sexual reproductive health rights of adolescents and young people are protected, then they are better placed to make informed and responsible decisions about their lives. This enables them to stay healthy, avoid unwanted pregnancies, prevent Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) including HIV, stay in school longer and complete their education. They are also better placed to obtain the skills that will enable them to become economically productive. The result will be a generation of empowered people who have the number of children they want, and who they are able to adequately provide and care for. Investing in the reproductive health of young people is indeed a great way for African countries to accelerate their development,” he says. While noting the relation between demographic dynamics, economic growth and national development, as well as Africa’s goals towards realization of the Agenda 2063 and the Sustainable Development Goals, Mr. Kouakou alludes to the concerted effort of all stakeholders in this regard. “African citizens, governments, Civil Society Organizations, national and international development organizations, partners, African Parliamentarians and other stakeholders all play vital roles towards Africa’s development.” Mr. Kouakou made these remarks while addressing members of the Forum of African Parliamentarians on Population and Development (FPA) during a side event ahead of the 28th African Union summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. He particularly stressed on the need for African Legislators to increase their commitment towards the implementation of the African Union roadmap on harnessing the demographic dividend, and their collaborative efforts with local partners to ensure that the demographic dividend messages are domesticated –up to the grassroots level. During the International Conference of Parliamentary Networks on Population and Development held in Dakar, Senegal in November 2016, African Parliamentarians committed to supporting the implementation of the four pillars of the African Union road map; “Harnessing the Demographic Dividend through Investments in Youth”. The road map factors in the need to transform the potential of Africa’s large youth population into a demographic dividend. It focuses on four pillars that are critical to increasing investments in youth, driving change and positioning African countries on the path towards harnessing the demographic dividend. The four pillars include: Employment and entrepreneurship Education and skills development Health and well-being, and Rights, governance and youth employment The IPPFAR Regional Director congratulated the Parliamentarians for their assurances taking action geared at harnessing the demographic dividend. “It is inspiring to observe the dedication of our Parliamentarians, who are committed to the realization of the improved livelihoods of our African people, and more so their continued call for more investments in youth and their sexual reproductive health and rights,” he said.    Mr. Kouakou reiterated IPPFAR’s commitment to supporting African Parliamentarians in this cause, and reaffirmed the organization’s pledge to working with other development partners, including UNFPA and the African Union Commission –whom he congratulated for their dedication to the youth and demographic dividend theme this year.   Hon. Marie-Rose Nguini Effa, the FPA chairperson reiterated the body’s commitment to championing the demographic dividend cause at the national and regional levels, and thanked the various organizations supporting them with this regard. “We recognize the critical link between the population of a country and its ability to achieve sustainable economic development, and that the youth are the most important driving force of sustainable development and demographic transition of the continent. We thank organizations such as the African Union Commission, IPPFAR, UNFPA and the Japan Trust Fund (JTF) for their continued support," she said. 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.

Lucien Koakou, IPPF Africa Region Director
news_item

| 26 January 2017

African Parliamentarians are Key to the Realization of the Demographic Dividend

By Maryanne W. Waweru Thursday 26 January 2017, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia Investment in family planning, girls and young women, and investments in young people are crucial elements in Africa’s quest to harnessing the demographic dividend. Mr. Lucien Kouakou, the IPPFAR Regional Director says the potential of Africa to achieve its desired development status will be enhanced if countries place more emphasis on the Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) of its citizens, with a particular emphasis on young people.   “When the sexual reproductive health rights of adolescents and young people are protected, then they are better placed to make informed and responsible decisions about their lives. This enables them to stay healthy, avoid unwanted pregnancies, prevent Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) including HIV, stay in school longer and complete their education. They are also better placed to obtain the skills that will enable them to become economically productive. The result will be a generation of empowered people who have the number of children they want, and who they are able to adequately provide and care for. Investing in the reproductive health of young people is indeed a great way for African countries to accelerate their development,” he says. While noting the relation between demographic dynamics, economic growth and national development, as well as Africa’s goals towards realization of the Agenda 2063 and the Sustainable Development Goals, Mr. Kouakou alludes to the concerted effort of all stakeholders in this regard. “African citizens, governments, Civil Society Organizations, national and international development organizations, partners, African Parliamentarians and other stakeholders all play vital roles towards Africa’s development.” Mr. Kouakou made these remarks while addressing members of the Forum of African Parliamentarians on Population and Development (FPA) during a side event ahead of the 28th African Union summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. He particularly stressed on the need for African Legislators to increase their commitment towards the implementation of the African Union roadmap on harnessing the demographic dividend, and their collaborative efforts with local partners to ensure that the demographic dividend messages are domesticated –up to the grassroots level. During the International Conference of Parliamentary Networks on Population and Development held in Dakar, Senegal in November 2016, African Parliamentarians committed to supporting the implementation of the four pillars of the African Union road map; “Harnessing the Demographic Dividend through Investments in Youth”. The road map factors in the need to transform the potential of Africa’s large youth population into a demographic dividend. It focuses on four pillars that are critical to increasing investments in youth, driving change and positioning African countries on the path towards harnessing the demographic dividend. The four pillars include: Employment and entrepreneurship Education and skills development Health and well-being, and Rights, governance and youth employment The IPPFAR Regional Director congratulated the Parliamentarians for their assurances taking action geared at harnessing the demographic dividend. “It is inspiring to observe the dedication of our Parliamentarians, who are committed to the realization of the improved livelihoods of our African people, and more so their continued call for more investments in youth and their sexual reproductive health and rights,” he said.    Mr. Kouakou reiterated IPPFAR’s commitment to supporting African Parliamentarians in this cause, and reaffirmed the organization’s pledge to working with other development partners, including UNFPA and the African Union Commission –whom he congratulated for their dedication to the youth and demographic dividend theme this year.   Hon. Marie-Rose Nguini Effa, the FPA chairperson reiterated the body’s commitment to championing the demographic dividend cause at the national and regional levels, and thanked the various organizations supporting them with this regard. “We recognize the critical link between the population of a country and its ability to achieve sustainable economic development, and that the youth are the most important driving force of sustainable development and demographic transition of the continent. We thank organizations such as the African Union Commission, IPPFAR, UNFPA and the Japan Trust Fund (JTF) for their continued support," she said. 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.

Emmy Otim Young Politicians in Africa
news item

| 26 January 2017

"Young People Should Not Be Comfortable With Their Uncomfortable Situation" -Emmy Otim

By Maryanne W. Waweru Wednesday 25 January 2017, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia A young politician from the East African country of Uganda has challenged African youth to rise up from their slumber and claim their rightful spaces if they are to improve their livelihoods, and if the continent is to achieve gains in development. “The reality is that many African young people today face a myriad of challenges, such as high rates of poverty and employment, drug abuse, alcoholism, reckless sex and unplanned pregnancies among others. Many youth are merely surviving, and sleepwalking through life. This is a great setback towards our achievement of ‘the Africa we Want’. Young people, don’t be comfortable with the uncomfortable situations you find yourselves in. Take charge of your own and realize that the continent depends on your positive input,” said Emmy Otim, during a panel discussion at the 9th African Union gender pre-summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, in a session titled: "Investing in Young People’s Political Engagement". The Africa Union theme for 2017 is “Harnessing the Demographic Dividend through Investments in Youth.” Representing Young Politicians in Africa, Mr. Otim further urged youth to deliberately engage in democratic processes and elect leaders who can help curate change and spur development in their countries. “Young people must take time to understand the electoral process and their civic responsibility of choosing a leader who understands the need for investing in the resource that is young people. They should use their right to vote, and vote in leaders who are progress oriented,” said Otim, while further urging them to desist from being used negatively by politicians. “Unfortunately, many African politicians take advantage of young people and use them to among others, intimidate their opponents and perpetrate acts of violence against them. In fact, it could be said that such politicians are the ones reaping from the demographic dividend as they are unfairly capitalizing on the resources that is youth. Others who may be taking advantage of young people and their vulnerable or unemployment status are child traffickers, rebel militia groups and the rising radical groups,” he said.   Mr. Otim encouraged young people to use their voices and effectively utilize the spaces they find themselves in to push their own development agenda. He particularly encouraged them to take advantage of technology, which is now more available to them than in previous years. “Today’s African youth are the most educated, exposed, creative and dynamic. They have access to technology, which, if used appropriately, can help them improve their standards of living and help them live quality lives. The various social media platforms that many youth have access to nowadays should be used effectively, to benefit not only themselves and their immediate communities, but their countries and the continent at large,” he said. IPPF Africa Region works closely with young people through the Youth Action Movement (YAM), where it implements various projects in different countries that support the empowerment of young people, helping them realize their full potential. IPPFAR is committed to the goals of the African Union Commission theme for 2017: “Harnessing the Demographic Dividend through Investments in Youth”. Story by Maryanne W. Waweru, IPPF Africa Region.

Emmy Otim Young Politicians in Africa
news_item

| 25 January 2017

"Young People Should Not Be Comfortable With Their Uncomfortable Situation" -Emmy Otim

By Maryanne W. Waweru Wednesday 25 January 2017, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia A young politician from the East African country of Uganda has challenged African youth to rise up from their slumber and claim their rightful spaces if they are to improve their livelihoods, and if the continent is to achieve gains in development. “The reality is that many African young people today face a myriad of challenges, such as high rates of poverty and employment, drug abuse, alcoholism, reckless sex and unplanned pregnancies among others. Many youth are merely surviving, and sleepwalking through life. This is a great setback towards our achievement of ‘the Africa we Want’. Young people, don’t be comfortable with the uncomfortable situations you find yourselves in. Take charge of your own and realize that the continent depends on your positive input,” said Emmy Otim, during a panel discussion at the 9th African Union gender pre-summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, in a session titled: "Investing in Young People’s Political Engagement". The Africa Union theme for 2017 is “Harnessing the Demographic Dividend through Investments in Youth.” Representing Young Politicians in Africa, Mr. Otim further urged youth to deliberately engage in democratic processes and elect leaders who can help curate change and spur development in their countries. “Young people must take time to understand the electoral process and their civic responsibility of choosing a leader who understands the need for investing in the resource that is young people. They should use their right to vote, and vote in leaders who are progress oriented,” said Otim, while further urging them to desist from being used negatively by politicians. “Unfortunately, many African politicians take advantage of young people and use them to among others, intimidate their opponents and perpetrate acts of violence against them. In fact, it could be said that such politicians are the ones reaping from the demographic dividend as they are unfairly capitalizing on the resources that is youth. Others who may be taking advantage of young people and their vulnerable or unemployment status are child traffickers, rebel militia groups and the rising radical groups,” he said.   Mr. Otim encouraged young people to use their voices and effectively utilize the spaces they find themselves in to push their own development agenda. He particularly encouraged them to take advantage of technology, which is now more available to them than in previous years. “Today’s African youth are the most educated, exposed, creative and dynamic. They have access to technology, which, if used appropriately, can help them improve their standards of living and help them live quality lives. The various social media platforms that many youth have access to nowadays should be used effectively, to benefit not only themselves and their immediate communities, but their countries and the continent at large,” he said. IPPF Africa Region works closely with young people through the Youth Action Movement (YAM), where it implements various projects in different countries that support the empowerment of young people, helping them realize their full potential. IPPFAR is committed to the goals of the African Union Commission theme for 2017: “Harnessing the Demographic Dividend through Investments in Youth”. Story by Maryanne W. Waweru, IPPF Africa Region.

Hon. Munah E. Pelham-Youngblood
news item

| 26 January 2017

Youth Must Participate in the Accountability Processes for Improved Development- Hon. Munah E. Pelham-Youngblood

By Maryanne W. Waweru Wednesday 25 January 2017, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia Hon. Munah E. Pelham-Youngblood, the youngest-ever elected Legislator in Liberia, says that young people -who form the largest population in Africa, must take up their role in holding to account their governments on their various pledges and commitments made. This, she says, is an accelerated step towards their improved livelihoods. Speaking during a panel discussion at the 9th African Union Gender Pre-Summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, in a session titled: “Investing in Young People’s Political Engagement”, Hon. Pelham-Youngblood stressed on the fact that accountability is a critical element necessary for citizens and young people’s access to basic services. “Openness, transparency and accountability by our governments and leaders are essential for development. The civil society, the private sector and the government must be involved in this process,” she said, while encouraging young people to take part in the various accountability processes available to them. “In monitoring the resources for better delivery of services and fostering accountability, citizens should participate in different processes, among them: public policy making, participatory planning and budgeting, monitoring of public funds, and procurement monitoring and preparing citizen’s report cards on access to quality public services.” The Member of Parliament however noted the challenges that citizens face in their quest for accountability from their leaders. “In many African countries, citizens do not have a voice and dare not speak negatively of those in authority for fear of reprisal. In fact, there are cases where those who have done so have been threatened and even jailed! This should however not discourage young people for demanding for quality services, which is their right. Supportive legislations must be put in place and enforced, to ensure that youth have access to public information and are protected whenever they raise questions,” she said. Hon. Pelham-Youngblood spoke of the various ways young people can raise issues in their community: “Young people should complain about unsatisfactory service and report this to the necessary individuals responsible for bringing change. In the event that change does not happen, they could then share evidence-based information with the media, with the latter playing their role in the process of accountability by sharing information with the public.” The Parliamentarian also urged young people to remain firm in their principles and values even as they demand for accountability. “As young people, we must never be compromised. We must be people of integrity. I encourage you to remain focused on your goal, and be determined to stand for the truth and seek justice no matter the situation, and regardless of the opposition or enticements that may come your way in order to influence your decision to stand for the truth,” she said. IPPFAR works with African Parliamentarians through the Africa Parliamentary Forum on Population and Development (FPA), in which Hon. Pelham-Youngblood is a member. FPA seeks to create an enabling environment at continental level to promote dialogue and cooperation among Parliamentarians, to increase ability of countries and regional communities, and to establish policies and plans of action based on evidence and in-depth analysis on population dynamics focusing on the demographic dividend.   Story by Maryanne W. Waweru, IPPF Africa Region. For more updates on our work, follow IPPF Africa Region on Facebook and Twitter

Hon. Munah E. Pelham-Youngblood
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| 25 January 2017

Youth Must Participate in the Accountability Processes for Improved Development- Hon. Munah E. Pelham-Youngblood

By Maryanne W. Waweru Wednesday 25 January 2017, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia Hon. Munah E. Pelham-Youngblood, the youngest-ever elected Legislator in Liberia, says that young people -who form the largest population in Africa, must take up their role in holding to account their governments on their various pledges and commitments made. This, she says, is an accelerated step towards their improved livelihoods. Speaking during a panel discussion at the 9th African Union Gender Pre-Summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, in a session titled: “Investing in Young People’s Political Engagement”, Hon. Pelham-Youngblood stressed on the fact that accountability is a critical element necessary for citizens and young people’s access to basic services. “Openness, transparency and accountability by our governments and leaders are essential for development. The civil society, the private sector and the government must be involved in this process,” she said, while encouraging young people to take part in the various accountability processes available to them. “In monitoring the resources for better delivery of services and fostering accountability, citizens should participate in different processes, among them: public policy making, participatory planning and budgeting, monitoring of public funds, and procurement monitoring and preparing citizen’s report cards on access to quality public services.” The Member of Parliament however noted the challenges that citizens face in their quest for accountability from their leaders. “In many African countries, citizens do not have a voice and dare not speak negatively of those in authority for fear of reprisal. In fact, there are cases where those who have done so have been threatened and even jailed! This should however not discourage young people for demanding for quality services, which is their right. Supportive legislations must be put in place and enforced, to ensure that youth have access to public information and are protected whenever they raise questions,” she said. Hon. Pelham-Youngblood spoke of the various ways young people can raise issues in their community: “Young people should complain about unsatisfactory service and report this to the necessary individuals responsible for bringing change. In the event that change does not happen, they could then share evidence-based information with the media, with the latter playing their role in the process of accountability by sharing information with the public.” The Parliamentarian also urged young people to remain firm in their principles and values even as they demand for accountability. “As young people, we must never be compromised. We must be people of integrity. I encourage you to remain focused on your goal, and be determined to stand for the truth and seek justice no matter the situation, and regardless of the opposition or enticements that may come your way in order to influence your decision to stand for the truth,” she said. IPPFAR works with African Parliamentarians through the Africa Parliamentary Forum on Population and Development (FPA), in which Hon. Pelham-Youngblood is a member. FPA seeks to create an enabling environment at continental level to promote dialogue and cooperation among Parliamentarians, to increase ability of countries and regional communities, and to establish policies and plans of action based on evidence and in-depth analysis on population dynamics focusing on the demographic dividend.   Story by Maryanne W. Waweru, IPPF Africa Region. For more updates on our work, follow IPPF Africa Region on Facebook and Twitter

Lucien_Kouakou_and_Genet_Mengistu_of_FGAE
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| 31 January 2017

IPPF Africa Regional Director Visits Family Guidance Association of Ethiopia (FGAE)

By Maryanne W. Waweru Monday 30 January 2017, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia The IPPF Africa Region Director Mr. Lucien Kouakou today paid a visit to the IPPF Member Association in Ethiopia –Family Guidance Association of Ethiopia (FGAE). During his visit, Mr. Kouakou met with FGAE members of staff including the Executive Director Ms. Genet Mengistu, whom he congratulated for their remarkable work in providing quality sexual reproductive health services to millions of Ethiopians. Mr. Kouakou, who is in the capital city of Addis Ababa attending activities around the 28th AU Summit, encouraged the members of staff to carry on with their commendable work. “We are proud of FGAE. Just last year, the organization celebrated 50 years of exemplary service and success in Ethiopia. FGAE is recognized as the pioneer organization for the introduction of family planning in the country, and five decades later, it is one of the leading providers of comprehensive, integrated, quality and gender-sensitive sexual reproductive health programs and services focusing on youth, underserved and vulnerable populations in Ethiopia. In addition, the success of FGAE’s Learning Center, which works closely with the Government and other partners in building the capacity of healthcare providers in Ethiopia through provision of needs-based quality sexual reproductive health training, is admirable. Indeed, the laudable success of FGAE is to be emulated not only in Ethiopia, but across Africa,” he said. Mr. Kouakou also assured FGAE of IPPF’s continued technical, financial and material support in regards to achievements of the organization’s goals. He further encouraged the Member Association to strive to establish and maintain formidable partnerships with other development stakeholders in the country, among them the Government, international, regional and national organizations, as well as local grassroots entities. “If we are to achieve our goals for sustainable development, then we must embrace the partnership of other organizations that share in our vision and the vision of ‘the Africa we Want’. When organizations work together, then they are able to accelerate development goals of the country and the continent, he said. The Regional Director further encouraged the Member Association to step up its efforts in resource mobilization, especially from domestic sources. “The African continent must steer its own development. We have to drive our own development agenda by investing our resources into innovative development-driven initiatives. Funding our own programmes will help avert some of the challenges that many development institutions face today –such as dwindling international donor funds or complete cut-back of funds. It is time for Africa to support Africa’s development through ventures such as domestic funding,” he said. In July last year, IPPF Africa Region launched the African Citizens Initiative (ACI) for sexual and reproductive health, which is a peer-to-peer fundraising campaign that aligns with the Africa Union’s Agenda 2063 commitment to the principle of self-reliance as well as the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals. The FGAE Executive Director, Ms. Genet Mengistu reiterated FGAE’s commitment to serving millions of Ethiopian men, women, youth and children through its unmatched services. She further reiterated the Regional Director’s call for the establishment of strategic partnerships with other development players towards the achievement of the organization’s goals. “We will endeavor to seek more partnerships at all levels, as this will help boost the delivery of our wide range of services. While in Addis Ababa, among key meetings that the Regional Director has participated in is the Forum of African Parliamentarians on Population and Development (FPA) side event, in which he called for more investment in family planning, girls and young people in the realization of harnessing the demographic dividend. He also called on African Parliamentarians to deliver on their commitments to the Dakar Declaration, in their capacity as key influencers. “Parliamentarians have the ability to influence their colleagues to push for the support and implementation of policies and legislations, especially those related to youth, health, population and development. They can call for more budgetary allocation to related Ministries such as those of Youth, Gender and Social Affairs, Health, Education Planning and Development, as well as other institutions that focus on the youth and their reproductive health. They can also take the lead in seeking innovative ways of mobilizing resources at the local level that would champion population and related issues. Seeking African solutions to African problems through domestic funding is one way to realizing Africa’s development, and we count on our Parliamentarians to champion this cause,” he said. Read the full article here: African Parliamentarians are Key to the Realization of the Demographic Dividend Story by Maryanne W. Waweru. For more updates on our work, follow us on Facebook and Twitter

Lucien_Kouakou_and_Genet_Mengistu_of_FGAE
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| 30 January 2017

IPPF Africa Regional Director Visits Family Guidance Association of Ethiopia (FGAE)

By Maryanne W. Waweru Monday 30 January 2017, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia The IPPF Africa Region Director Mr. Lucien Kouakou today paid a visit to the IPPF Member Association in Ethiopia –Family Guidance Association of Ethiopia (FGAE). During his visit, Mr. Kouakou met with FGAE members of staff including the Executive Director Ms. Genet Mengistu, whom he congratulated for their remarkable work in providing quality sexual reproductive health services to millions of Ethiopians. Mr. Kouakou, who is in the capital city of Addis Ababa attending activities around the 28th AU Summit, encouraged the members of staff to carry on with their commendable work. “We are proud of FGAE. Just last year, the organization celebrated 50 years of exemplary service and success in Ethiopia. FGAE is recognized as the pioneer organization for the introduction of family planning in the country, and five decades later, it is one of the leading providers of comprehensive, integrated, quality and gender-sensitive sexual reproductive health programs and services focusing on youth, underserved and vulnerable populations in Ethiopia. In addition, the success of FGAE’s Learning Center, which works closely with the Government and other partners in building the capacity of healthcare providers in Ethiopia through provision of needs-based quality sexual reproductive health training, is admirable. Indeed, the laudable success of FGAE is to be emulated not only in Ethiopia, but across Africa,” he said. Mr. Kouakou also assured FGAE of IPPF’s continued technical, financial and material support in regards to achievements of the organization’s goals. He further encouraged the Member Association to strive to establish and maintain formidable partnerships with other development stakeholders in the country, among them the Government, international, regional and national organizations, as well as local grassroots entities. “If we are to achieve our goals for sustainable development, then we must embrace the partnership of other organizations that share in our vision and the vision of ‘the Africa we Want’. When organizations work together, then they are able to accelerate development goals of the country and the continent, he said. The Regional Director further encouraged the Member Association to step up its efforts in resource mobilization, especially from domestic sources. “The African continent must steer its own development. We have to drive our own development agenda by investing our resources into innovative development-driven initiatives. Funding our own programmes will help avert some of the challenges that many development institutions face today –such as dwindling international donor funds or complete cut-back of funds. It is time for Africa to support Africa’s development through ventures such as domestic funding,” he said. In July last year, IPPF Africa Region launched the African Citizens Initiative (ACI) for sexual and reproductive health, which is a peer-to-peer fundraising campaign that aligns with the Africa Union’s Agenda 2063 commitment to the principle of self-reliance as well as the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals. The FGAE Executive Director, Ms. Genet Mengistu reiterated FGAE’s commitment to serving millions of Ethiopian men, women, youth and children through its unmatched services. She further reiterated the Regional Director’s call for the establishment of strategic partnerships with other development players towards the achievement of the organization’s goals. “We will endeavor to seek more partnerships at all levels, as this will help boost the delivery of our wide range of services. While in Addis Ababa, among key meetings that the Regional Director has participated in is the Forum of African Parliamentarians on Population and Development (FPA) side event, in which he called for more investment in family planning, girls and young people in the realization of harnessing the demographic dividend. He also called on African Parliamentarians to deliver on their commitments to the Dakar Declaration, in their capacity as key influencers. “Parliamentarians have the ability to influence their colleagues to push for the support and implementation of policies and legislations, especially those related to youth, health, population and development. They can call for more budgetary allocation to related Ministries such as those of Youth, Gender and Social Affairs, Health, Education Planning and Development, as well as other institutions that focus on the youth and their reproductive health. They can also take the lead in seeking innovative ways of mobilizing resources at the local level that would champion population and related issues. Seeking African solutions to African problems through domestic funding is one way to realizing Africa’s development, and we count on our Parliamentarians to champion this cause,” he said. Read the full article here: African Parliamentarians are Key to the Realization of the Demographic Dividend Story by Maryanne W. Waweru. For more updates on our work, follow us on Facebook and Twitter

IPPF responds to the Global Gag rule
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| 29 January 2017

The Global Gag Rule: IPPF's Projects at Risk

What is the Global GAG Rule? The Mexico City Policy, known as the Global Gag Rule (GGR), denies US funding to organiztions like IPPF if they use money from other donors to provide abortion services, counselling or referrals—even if abortion is legal in a country.  The rule blocks critical funding for health services like contraception, maternal health, and HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment for any organization that refuses to sign up to it.  When it has been enacted by previous Republican Presidents, evidence has shown that the rule has not reduced the number of abortions; rather, by eliminating access to contraception, it has led to more unintended pregnancies and more unsafe abortions.      Related Article: IPPF Speaks out Against the Global Gag Rule How will the Global GAG Rule affect IPPF? IPPF's services apply an integrated approach. This means that any funding the federation loses could have a knock-on effect on array of services.   For example, people who are getting voluntary family planning information, education and services may also need other types of healthcare like HIV testing and treatment, cervical cancer screening, infertility support or delivering maternal health services in humanitarian settings. Our integrated approach also covers work on sexual and gender based violence like rape, female genital mutilation and early and forced marriage. What will Happen? As a global SRH service delivery organization, IPPF has been partnering with USAID, the largest global voluntary FP donor for decades to increase access to reproductive health services.   Currently, millions of men and women in the poorest and hardest to reach communities are accessing SRH services due to USAID support. With the GGR reinstated, many of these people will no longer have access to essential reproductive health services. Related Article: IPPF: Why we will not Sign the Global Gag Rule

IPPF responds to the Global Gag rule
news_item

| 29 January 2017

The Global Gag Rule: IPPF's Projects at Risk

What is the Global GAG Rule? The Mexico City Policy, known as the Global Gag Rule (GGR), denies US funding to organiztions like IPPF if they use money from other donors to provide abortion services, counselling or referrals—even if abortion is legal in a country.  The rule blocks critical funding for health services like contraception, maternal health, and HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment for any organization that refuses to sign up to it.  When it has been enacted by previous Republican Presidents, evidence has shown that the rule has not reduced the number of abortions; rather, by eliminating access to contraception, it has led to more unintended pregnancies and more unsafe abortions.      Related Article: IPPF Speaks out Against the Global Gag Rule How will the Global GAG Rule affect IPPF? IPPF's services apply an integrated approach. This means that any funding the federation loses could have a knock-on effect on array of services.   For example, people who are getting voluntary family planning information, education and services may also need other types of healthcare like HIV testing and treatment, cervical cancer screening, infertility support or delivering maternal health services in humanitarian settings. Our integrated approach also covers work on sexual and gender based violence like rape, female genital mutilation and early and forced marriage. What will Happen? As a global SRH service delivery organization, IPPF has been partnering with USAID, the largest global voluntary FP donor for decades to increase access to reproductive health services.   Currently, millions of men and women in the poorest and hardest to reach communities are accessing SRH services due to USAID support. With the GGR reinstated, many of these people will no longer have access to essential reproductive health services. Related Article: IPPF: Why we will not Sign the Global Gag Rule

Grace_Banda_Zambia
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| 28 January 2017

“We Count on our African Parliamentarians to Push the Youth Reproductive Health Agenda Forward” –Grace Banda

Grace Banda, a young lady from Zambia has called on African Parliamentarians to exercise their role in ensuring that the health concerns of Africa’s youth are prioritized. “African countries must honor their commitments to the Abuja Declaration, as this will make tremendous improvements in the health sector, and more so those touching on adolescent and young people’s sexual reproductive health. As Africa’s youth, we urge our Parliamentarians to hold their governments to account on this pledge. They have the voice and the power to push for the realization of this commitment, as well as ensuring that other laws and policies touching on youth and sexual reproductive health are implemented in a timely and effective manner. Our African Parliamentarians are key to the achievement of Africa’s development goals, including the harnessing of the demographic dividend which calls for investments in youth,” said Ms. Banda, a 23 year-old Youth Action Movement (YAM) member from Zambia and an advocate against Child Early and Forced Marriage (CEFM) among African girls. She made these remarks while addressing members of the Forum of African Parliamentarians on Population and Development (FPA) during a side event ahead of the 28th African Union summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. In April 2001, the African Union countries met and pledged to set a target of allocating at least 15% of their annual budget to improve the health sector and urged donor countries to scale up support. However, years later, many of these countries are yet to meet their targets. Parliamentarians can ensure that these commitments are implemented. In her speech, Ms. Banda also called on Parliamentarians to assist in ensuring that adolescents and young people have access to age-appropriate sexuality information, and that they can be able to access reproductive health services in a youth-friendly manner. “Many adolescents and youth make poor decisions about their sexuality because they lack accurate information. They are also not able to access contraceptive services because health service providers are not sensitive and accommodative to their needs. There are also many prohibitive policies that prevent young people from accessing these services, and which, if reviewed, will avert poor health outcomes among them such as teenage pregnancies, school dropouts and Sexually Transmitted Infections (including HIV) among others. We call on our Parliamentarians to push for the removal of such policies and development of supportive ones that will enable young people to live healthy and productive lives, which will be a great plus for Africa’s development,” she said. Speaking at the same forum, IPPF Africa Region Director Mr. Lucien Kouakou, emphasized that indeed, Parliamentarians are instrumental in harnessing the demographic dividend, as they are greatly involved in the formulation of various policies and legislations that pertain to the country’s development. “Parliamentarians have the capacity to influence their colleagues to push for the support and implementation of policies and legislations, especially those related to youth, health, population and development. They can call for more budgetary allocation to related Ministries, such as those of Youth, Gender and Social Affairs, Health, Education Planning and Development, as well as other institutions that focus on the youth and their reproductive health. They can also take the lead in seeking innovative ways of mobilizing resources at the local level that would champion population and related issues. Seeking African solutions to African problems through domestic funding is one way to realizing Africa’s development, and we count on our Parliamentarians to champion this cause,” he said. Story by Maryanne W. Waweru, IPPF Africa Region. For more updates on our work, follow IPPF Africa Region on Facebook and Twitter

Grace_Banda_Zambia
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| 28 January 2017

“We Count on our African Parliamentarians to Push the Youth Reproductive Health Agenda Forward” –Grace Banda

Grace Banda, a young lady from Zambia has called on African Parliamentarians to exercise their role in ensuring that the health concerns of Africa’s youth are prioritized. “African countries must honor their commitments to the Abuja Declaration, as this will make tremendous improvements in the health sector, and more so those touching on adolescent and young people’s sexual reproductive health. As Africa’s youth, we urge our Parliamentarians to hold their governments to account on this pledge. They have the voice and the power to push for the realization of this commitment, as well as ensuring that other laws and policies touching on youth and sexual reproductive health are implemented in a timely and effective manner. Our African Parliamentarians are key to the achievement of Africa’s development goals, including the harnessing of the demographic dividend which calls for investments in youth,” said Ms. Banda, a 23 year-old Youth Action Movement (YAM) member from Zambia and an advocate against Child Early and Forced Marriage (CEFM) among African girls. She made these remarks while addressing members of the Forum of African Parliamentarians on Population and Development (FPA) during a side event ahead of the 28th African Union summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. In April 2001, the African Union countries met and pledged to set a target of allocating at least 15% of their annual budget to improve the health sector and urged donor countries to scale up support. However, years later, many of these countries are yet to meet their targets. Parliamentarians can ensure that these commitments are implemented. In her speech, Ms. Banda also called on Parliamentarians to assist in ensuring that adolescents and young people have access to age-appropriate sexuality information, and that they can be able to access reproductive health services in a youth-friendly manner. “Many adolescents and youth make poor decisions about their sexuality because they lack accurate information. They are also not able to access contraceptive services because health service providers are not sensitive and accommodative to their needs. There are also many prohibitive policies that prevent young people from accessing these services, and which, if reviewed, will avert poor health outcomes among them such as teenage pregnancies, school dropouts and Sexually Transmitted Infections (including HIV) among others. We call on our Parliamentarians to push for the removal of such policies and development of supportive ones that will enable young people to live healthy and productive lives, which will be a great plus for Africa’s development,” she said. Speaking at the same forum, IPPF Africa Region Director Mr. Lucien Kouakou, emphasized that indeed, Parliamentarians are instrumental in harnessing the demographic dividend, as they are greatly involved in the formulation of various policies and legislations that pertain to the country’s development. “Parliamentarians have the capacity to influence their colleagues to push for the support and implementation of policies and legislations, especially those related to youth, health, population and development. They can call for more budgetary allocation to related Ministries, such as those of Youth, Gender and Social Affairs, Health, Education Planning and Development, as well as other institutions that focus on the youth and their reproductive health. They can also take the lead in seeking innovative ways of mobilizing resources at the local level that would champion population and related issues. Seeking African solutions to African problems through domestic funding is one way to realizing Africa’s development, and we count on our Parliamentarians to champion this cause,” he said. Story by Maryanne W. Waweru, IPPF Africa Region. For more updates on our work, follow IPPF Africa Region on Facebook and Twitter

Lucien Koakou, IPPF Africa Region Director
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| 26 January 2017

African Parliamentarians are Key to the Realization of the Demographic Dividend

By Maryanne W. Waweru Thursday 26 January 2017, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia Investment in family planning, girls and young women, and investments in young people are crucial elements in Africa’s quest to harnessing the demographic dividend. Mr. Lucien Kouakou, the IPPFAR Regional Director says the potential of Africa to achieve its desired development status will be enhanced if countries place more emphasis on the Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) of its citizens, with a particular emphasis on young people.   “When the sexual reproductive health rights of adolescents and young people are protected, then they are better placed to make informed and responsible decisions about their lives. This enables them to stay healthy, avoid unwanted pregnancies, prevent Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) including HIV, stay in school longer and complete their education. They are also better placed to obtain the skills that will enable them to become economically productive. The result will be a generation of empowered people who have the number of children they want, and who they are able to adequately provide and care for. Investing in the reproductive health of young people is indeed a great way for African countries to accelerate their development,” he says. While noting the relation between demographic dynamics, economic growth and national development, as well as Africa’s goals towards realization of the Agenda 2063 and the Sustainable Development Goals, Mr. Kouakou alludes to the concerted effort of all stakeholders in this regard. “African citizens, governments, Civil Society Organizations, national and international development organizations, partners, African Parliamentarians and other stakeholders all play vital roles towards Africa’s development.” Mr. Kouakou made these remarks while addressing members of the Forum of African Parliamentarians on Population and Development (FPA) during a side event ahead of the 28th African Union summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. He particularly stressed on the need for African Legislators to increase their commitment towards the implementation of the African Union roadmap on harnessing the demographic dividend, and their collaborative efforts with local partners to ensure that the demographic dividend messages are domesticated –up to the grassroots level. During the International Conference of Parliamentary Networks on Population and Development held in Dakar, Senegal in November 2016, African Parliamentarians committed to supporting the implementation of the four pillars of the African Union road map; “Harnessing the Demographic Dividend through Investments in Youth”. The road map factors in the need to transform the potential of Africa’s large youth population into a demographic dividend. It focuses on four pillars that are critical to increasing investments in youth, driving change and positioning African countries on the path towards harnessing the demographic dividend. The four pillars include: Employment and entrepreneurship Education and skills development Health and well-being, and Rights, governance and youth employment The IPPFAR Regional Director congratulated the Parliamentarians for their assurances taking action geared at harnessing the demographic dividend. “It is inspiring to observe the dedication of our Parliamentarians, who are committed to the realization of the improved livelihoods of our African people, and more so their continued call for more investments in youth and their sexual reproductive health and rights,” he said.    Mr. Kouakou reiterated IPPFAR’s commitment to supporting African Parliamentarians in this cause, and reaffirmed the organization’s pledge to working with other development partners, including UNFPA and the African Union Commission –whom he congratulated for their dedication to the youth and demographic dividend theme this year.   Hon. Marie-Rose Nguini Effa, the FPA chairperson reiterated the body’s commitment to championing the demographic dividend cause at the national and regional levels, and thanked the various organizations supporting them with this regard. “We recognize the critical link between the population of a country and its ability to achieve sustainable economic development, and that the youth are the most important driving force of sustainable development and demographic transition of the continent. We thank organizations such as the African Union Commission, IPPFAR, UNFPA and the Japan Trust Fund (JTF) for their continued support," she said. 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.

Lucien Koakou, IPPF Africa Region Director
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| 26 January 2017

African Parliamentarians are Key to the Realization of the Demographic Dividend

By Maryanne W. Waweru Thursday 26 January 2017, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia Investment in family planning, girls and young women, and investments in young people are crucial elements in Africa’s quest to harnessing the demographic dividend. Mr. Lucien Kouakou, the IPPFAR Regional Director says the potential of Africa to achieve its desired development status will be enhanced if countries place more emphasis on the Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) of its citizens, with a particular emphasis on young people.   “When the sexual reproductive health rights of adolescents and young people are protected, then they are better placed to make informed and responsible decisions about their lives. This enables them to stay healthy, avoid unwanted pregnancies, prevent Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) including HIV, stay in school longer and complete their education. They are also better placed to obtain the skills that will enable them to become economically productive. The result will be a generation of empowered people who have the number of children they want, and who they are able to adequately provide and care for. Investing in the reproductive health of young people is indeed a great way for African countries to accelerate their development,” he says. While noting the relation between demographic dynamics, economic growth and national development, as well as Africa’s goals towards realization of the Agenda 2063 and the Sustainable Development Goals, Mr. Kouakou alludes to the concerted effort of all stakeholders in this regard. “African citizens, governments, Civil Society Organizations, national and international development organizations, partners, African Parliamentarians and other stakeholders all play vital roles towards Africa’s development.” Mr. Kouakou made these remarks while addressing members of the Forum of African Parliamentarians on Population and Development (FPA) during a side event ahead of the 28th African Union summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. He particularly stressed on the need for African Legislators to increase their commitment towards the implementation of the African Union roadmap on harnessing the demographic dividend, and their collaborative efforts with local partners to ensure that the demographic dividend messages are domesticated –up to the grassroots level. During the International Conference of Parliamentary Networks on Population and Development held in Dakar, Senegal in November 2016, African Parliamentarians committed to supporting the implementation of the four pillars of the African Union road map; “Harnessing the Demographic Dividend through Investments in Youth”. The road map factors in the need to transform the potential of Africa’s large youth population into a demographic dividend. It focuses on four pillars that are critical to increasing investments in youth, driving change and positioning African countries on the path towards harnessing the demographic dividend. The four pillars include: Employment and entrepreneurship Education and skills development Health and well-being, and Rights, governance and youth employment The IPPFAR Regional Director congratulated the Parliamentarians for their assurances taking action geared at harnessing the demographic dividend. “It is inspiring to observe the dedication of our Parliamentarians, who are committed to the realization of the improved livelihoods of our African people, and more so their continued call for more investments in youth and their sexual reproductive health and rights,” he said.    Mr. Kouakou reiterated IPPFAR’s commitment to supporting African Parliamentarians in this cause, and reaffirmed the organization’s pledge to working with other development partners, including UNFPA and the African Union Commission –whom he congratulated for their dedication to the youth and demographic dividend theme this year.   Hon. Marie-Rose Nguini Effa, the FPA chairperson reiterated the body’s commitment to championing the demographic dividend cause at the national and regional levels, and thanked the various organizations supporting them with this regard. “We recognize the critical link between the population of a country and its ability to achieve sustainable economic development, and that the youth are the most important driving force of sustainable development and demographic transition of the continent. We thank organizations such as the African Union Commission, IPPFAR, UNFPA and the Japan Trust Fund (JTF) for their continued support," she said. 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.

Emmy Otim Young Politicians in Africa
news item

| 26 January 2017

"Young People Should Not Be Comfortable With Their Uncomfortable Situation" -Emmy Otim

By Maryanne W. Waweru Wednesday 25 January 2017, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia A young politician from the East African country of Uganda has challenged African youth to rise up from their slumber and claim their rightful spaces if they are to improve their livelihoods, and if the continent is to achieve gains in development. “The reality is that many African young people today face a myriad of challenges, such as high rates of poverty and employment, drug abuse, alcoholism, reckless sex and unplanned pregnancies among others. Many youth are merely surviving, and sleepwalking through life. This is a great setback towards our achievement of ‘the Africa we Want’. Young people, don’t be comfortable with the uncomfortable situations you find yourselves in. Take charge of your own and realize that the continent depends on your positive input,” said Emmy Otim, during a panel discussion at the 9th African Union gender pre-summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, in a session titled: "Investing in Young People’s Political Engagement". The Africa Union theme for 2017 is “Harnessing the Demographic Dividend through Investments in Youth.” Representing Young Politicians in Africa, Mr. Otim further urged youth to deliberately engage in democratic processes and elect leaders who can help curate change and spur development in their countries. “Young people must take time to understand the electoral process and their civic responsibility of choosing a leader who understands the need for investing in the resource that is young people. They should use their right to vote, and vote in leaders who are progress oriented,” said Otim, while further urging them to desist from being used negatively by politicians. “Unfortunately, many African politicians take advantage of young people and use them to among others, intimidate their opponents and perpetrate acts of violence against them. In fact, it could be said that such politicians are the ones reaping from the demographic dividend as they are unfairly capitalizing on the resources that is youth. Others who may be taking advantage of young people and their vulnerable or unemployment status are child traffickers, rebel militia groups and the rising radical groups,” he said.   Mr. Otim encouraged young people to use their voices and effectively utilize the spaces they find themselves in to push their own development agenda. He particularly encouraged them to take advantage of technology, which is now more available to them than in previous years. “Today’s African youth are the most educated, exposed, creative and dynamic. They have access to technology, which, if used appropriately, can help them improve their standards of living and help them live quality lives. The various social media platforms that many youth have access to nowadays should be used effectively, to benefit not only themselves and their immediate communities, but their countries and the continent at large,” he said. IPPF Africa Region works closely with young people through the Youth Action Movement (YAM), where it implements various projects in different countries that support the empowerment of young people, helping them realize their full potential. IPPFAR is committed to the goals of the African Union Commission theme for 2017: “Harnessing the Demographic Dividend through Investments in Youth”. Story by Maryanne W. Waweru, IPPF Africa Region.

Emmy Otim Young Politicians in Africa
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| 25 January 2017

"Young People Should Not Be Comfortable With Their Uncomfortable Situation" -Emmy Otim

By Maryanne W. Waweru Wednesday 25 January 2017, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia A young politician from the East African country of Uganda has challenged African youth to rise up from their slumber and claim their rightful spaces if they are to improve their livelihoods, and if the continent is to achieve gains in development. “The reality is that many African young people today face a myriad of challenges, such as high rates of poverty and employment, drug abuse, alcoholism, reckless sex and unplanned pregnancies among others. Many youth are merely surviving, and sleepwalking through life. This is a great setback towards our achievement of ‘the Africa we Want’. Young people, don’t be comfortable with the uncomfortable situations you find yourselves in. Take charge of your own and realize that the continent depends on your positive input,” said Emmy Otim, during a panel discussion at the 9th African Union gender pre-summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, in a session titled: "Investing in Young People’s Political Engagement". The Africa Union theme for 2017 is “Harnessing the Demographic Dividend through Investments in Youth.” Representing Young Politicians in Africa, Mr. Otim further urged youth to deliberately engage in democratic processes and elect leaders who can help curate change and spur development in their countries. “Young people must take time to understand the electoral process and their civic responsibility of choosing a leader who understands the need for investing in the resource that is young people. They should use their right to vote, and vote in leaders who are progress oriented,” said Otim, while further urging them to desist from being used negatively by politicians. “Unfortunately, many African politicians take advantage of young people and use them to among others, intimidate their opponents and perpetrate acts of violence against them. In fact, it could be said that such politicians are the ones reaping from the demographic dividend as they are unfairly capitalizing on the resources that is youth. Others who may be taking advantage of young people and their vulnerable or unemployment status are child traffickers, rebel militia groups and the rising radical groups,” he said.   Mr. Otim encouraged young people to use their voices and effectively utilize the spaces they find themselves in to push their own development agenda. He particularly encouraged them to take advantage of technology, which is now more available to them than in previous years. “Today’s African youth are the most educated, exposed, creative and dynamic. They have access to technology, which, if used appropriately, can help them improve their standards of living and help them live quality lives. The various social media platforms that many youth have access to nowadays should be used effectively, to benefit not only themselves and their immediate communities, but their countries and the continent at large,” he said. IPPF Africa Region works closely with young people through the Youth Action Movement (YAM), where it implements various projects in different countries that support the empowerment of young people, helping them realize their full potential. IPPFAR is committed to the goals of the African Union Commission theme for 2017: “Harnessing the Demographic Dividend through Investments in Youth”. Story by Maryanne W. Waweru, IPPF Africa Region.

Hon. Munah E. Pelham-Youngblood
news item

| 26 January 2017

Youth Must Participate in the Accountability Processes for Improved Development- Hon. Munah E. Pelham-Youngblood

By Maryanne W. Waweru Wednesday 25 January 2017, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia Hon. Munah E. Pelham-Youngblood, the youngest-ever elected Legislator in Liberia, says that young people -who form the largest population in Africa, must take up their role in holding to account their governments on their various pledges and commitments made. This, she says, is an accelerated step towards their improved livelihoods. Speaking during a panel discussion at the 9th African Union Gender Pre-Summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, in a session titled: “Investing in Young People’s Political Engagement”, Hon. Pelham-Youngblood stressed on the fact that accountability is a critical element necessary for citizens and young people’s access to basic services. “Openness, transparency and accountability by our governments and leaders are essential for development. The civil society, the private sector and the government must be involved in this process,” she said, while encouraging young people to take part in the various accountability processes available to them. “In monitoring the resources for better delivery of services and fostering accountability, citizens should participate in different processes, among them: public policy making, participatory planning and budgeting, monitoring of public funds, and procurement monitoring and preparing citizen’s report cards on access to quality public services.” The Member of Parliament however noted the challenges that citizens face in their quest for accountability from their leaders. “In many African countries, citizens do not have a voice and dare not speak negatively of those in authority for fear of reprisal. In fact, there are cases where those who have done so have been threatened and even jailed! This should however not discourage young people for demanding for quality services, which is their right. Supportive legislations must be put in place and enforced, to ensure that youth have access to public information and are protected whenever they raise questions,” she said. Hon. Pelham-Youngblood spoke of the various ways young people can raise issues in their community: “Young people should complain about unsatisfactory service and report this to the necessary individuals responsible for bringing change. In the event that change does not happen, they could then share evidence-based information with the media, with the latter playing their role in the process of accountability by sharing information with the public.” The Parliamentarian also urged young people to remain firm in their principles and values even as they demand for accountability. “As young people, we must never be compromised. We must be people of integrity. I encourage you to remain focused on your goal, and be determined to stand for the truth and seek justice no matter the situation, and regardless of the opposition or enticements that may come your way in order to influence your decision to stand for the truth,” she said. IPPFAR works with African Parliamentarians through the Africa Parliamentary Forum on Population and Development (FPA), in which Hon. Pelham-Youngblood is a member. FPA seeks to create an enabling environment at continental level to promote dialogue and cooperation among Parliamentarians, to increase ability of countries and regional communities, and to establish policies and plans of action based on evidence and in-depth analysis on population dynamics focusing on the demographic dividend.   Story by Maryanne W. Waweru, IPPF Africa Region. For more updates on our work, follow IPPF Africa Region on Facebook and Twitter

Hon. Munah E. Pelham-Youngblood
news_item

| 25 January 2017

Youth Must Participate in the Accountability Processes for Improved Development- Hon. Munah E. Pelham-Youngblood

By Maryanne W. Waweru Wednesday 25 January 2017, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia Hon. Munah E. Pelham-Youngblood, the youngest-ever elected Legislator in Liberia, says that young people -who form the largest population in Africa, must take up their role in holding to account their governments on their various pledges and commitments made. This, she says, is an accelerated step towards their improved livelihoods. Speaking during a panel discussion at the 9th African Union Gender Pre-Summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, in a session titled: “Investing in Young People’s Political Engagement”, Hon. Pelham-Youngblood stressed on the fact that accountability is a critical element necessary for citizens and young people’s access to basic services. “Openness, transparency and accountability by our governments and leaders are essential for development. The civil society, the private sector and the government must be involved in this process,” she said, while encouraging young people to take part in the various accountability processes available to them. “In monitoring the resources for better delivery of services and fostering accountability, citizens should participate in different processes, among them: public policy making, participatory planning and budgeting, monitoring of public funds, and procurement monitoring and preparing citizen’s report cards on access to quality public services.” The Member of Parliament however noted the challenges that citizens face in their quest for accountability from their leaders. “In many African countries, citizens do not have a voice and dare not speak negatively of those in authority for fear of reprisal. In fact, there are cases where those who have done so have been threatened and even jailed! This should however not discourage young people for demanding for quality services, which is their right. Supportive legislations must be put in place and enforced, to ensure that youth have access to public information and are protected whenever they raise questions,” she said. Hon. Pelham-Youngblood spoke of the various ways young people can raise issues in their community: “Young people should complain about unsatisfactory service and report this to the necessary individuals responsible for bringing change. In the event that change does not happen, they could then share evidence-based information with the media, with the latter playing their role in the process of accountability by sharing information with the public.” The Parliamentarian also urged young people to remain firm in their principles and values even as they demand for accountability. “As young people, we must never be compromised. We must be people of integrity. I encourage you to remain focused on your goal, and be determined to stand for the truth and seek justice no matter the situation, and regardless of the opposition or enticements that may come your way in order to influence your decision to stand for the truth,” she said. IPPFAR works with African Parliamentarians through the Africa Parliamentary Forum on Population and Development (FPA), in which Hon. Pelham-Youngblood is a member. FPA seeks to create an enabling environment at continental level to promote dialogue and cooperation among Parliamentarians, to increase ability of countries and regional communities, and to establish policies and plans of action based on evidence and in-depth analysis on population dynamics focusing on the demographic dividend.   Story by Maryanne W. Waweru, IPPF Africa Region. For more updates on our work, follow IPPF Africa Region on Facebook and Twitter