On October 8, 2024, PS Kenya took part in a pivotal National Consultation Meeting that convened key stakeholders in the field of sexual and reproductive health (SRH). The meeting began with opening remarks from Fidelis Ndung’u, Deputy Director of the National Council for Population and Development, who welcomed participants and facilitated introductions. Each organization was given the opportunity to share its contributions to the SRH landscape.
“We are at a pivotal moment to reaffirm our commitment to human rights and to ensure every individual’s right to health and dignity,” stated Fidelis Ndung’u
The International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD), established in 1994, emphasized individual dignity and human rights, particularly concerning family planning. However, ongoing crises threaten to reverse the progress made toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), putting women’s and girls’ rights increasingly at risk. As part of the 30th anniversary of the ICPD, this meeting underscored the importance of individual dignity and human rights, especially in the realm of family planning.
PS Kenya, alongside partners such as UNFPA and the National Council for Population and Development, engaged in discussions that highlighted both achievements and challenges in implementing the ICPD Program of Action. We emphasized the need for collaborative efforts to ensure equitable access to SRH services for all demographics. Our commitment to eliminating preventable maternal mortality and morbidity by 2030 was a key focus, alongside advocating for comprehensive sexual and reproductive health rights for everyone.
The meeting also outlined critical success indicators for the ICPD agenda, such as increased support from new partners and the integration of ICPD issues into global frameworks. Participants discussed the future direction of SRH in Kenya, focusing on areas such as demographic diversity, improvements in population data systems, and digital adaptation to keep SRH initiatives relevant in a rapidly changing world.
Challenges, including the impact of COVID-19 on health systems and socio-cultural barriers affecting access to SRH services, were acknowledged. In response, stakeholders agreed on the need to improve healthcare resource distribution at the county level and to implement public awareness campaigns that challenge harmful cultural norms.
PS Kenya remains committed to advancing sexual and reproductive health rights through collaborative partnerships and advocacy efforts. By addressing systemic challenges and promoting equitable access to services, we aim to contribute significantly to a healthier future for all Kenyans.
