PPASL Trains Youth, Marginalized Groups on Sexual & Reproductive Health Rights

By Marilyn King
The Planned Parenthood Association of Sierra Leone (PPASL) conducted a training session on Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights (SRHR) for young people and marginalized groups on Friday 26th July, 2024, at Buxton Hall in Freetown. The event, themed “Leave No One Behind,” aimed to equip participants with knowledge and resources to improve community health and awareness.
Buyah Nabieu Bangura, President of the Youth Action Movement Sierra Leone (YAMSAL), emphasized the importance of protection during sex to reduce infections. He urged young people to regularly check their health status and educate their families, friends, and communities about SRHR. Buyah Bangura also encouraged frequent testing for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) at hospitals.
Samuel Yemeh Koroma, Youth and Communication Officer at PPASL, highlighted the purpose of the training: to educate young people on their sexual and reproductive health rights. Buyah noted the significant health challenges faced by young people, including exposure to various diseases. He stressed that information is powerful and that the training aimed to empower young people to disseminate SRHR knowledge within their communities.
Buyah pointed out the high rates of teenage pregnancy in Sierra Leone and explained that educating teenagers can help prevent early pregnancies. He also mentioned the rising HIV rates among adolescents, warning that inaction could impact future generations. “A healthy nation is a wealthy nation,” Buyah stated, underlining the need for proactive measures.
Gladys A. Goba, Regional Manager North West and Acting Service Delivery Manager at PPASL, provided an overview of the HIV epidemiology in Sierra Leone. With a population of over eight million, approximately 76,408 people are living with HIV, representing a 1.7% prevalence rate. Gladys noted the epidemic’s mixed, generalized nature, with a significant concentration among key populations, including female sex workers, who have an 11.8% HIV prevalence rate.
Gladys reiterated PPASL’s commitment to working with young people to spread awareness about SRHR and to combat discrimination against marginalized groups. “Leave No One Behind” remains the guiding principle, ensuring inclusivity and support for all individuals in their health journeys.