Inclusive SRHR Programming through Information, Rights and Empowerment (INSPIRE) Project, implemented by Ungweru Organisation in Nkhata Bay District, is making encouraging progress in helping young people access accurate information and safe spaces to learn about their health and rights.
Since its launch, the project has worked closely with district and community stakeholders, health workers, teachers, schools, and young people. This collaboration has helped create a strong foundation for the project and encouraged communities to take part in supporting young people’s Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR).
One of the project’s major achievements has been the engagement of six secondary schools and five community youth clubs across three Traditional Authorities Zilakoma, Malanda, Fukamapiri and one Sub-Traditional Authority Chiweyu. Existing clubs have been strengthened, while new clubs have been formed in places where they did not previously exist. These clubs give young people a safe and inclusive place to ask questions, share experiences, and learn from one another.
An engagement with Kalowa Community Day Secondary School (CDSS) youth club
The project has also conducted 11 SRHR education sessions in schools and communities. Health workers, teachers, and the INSPIRE team have discussed topics including puberty, menstruation, confidence, empathy, and Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE). The sessions are helping young people understand their bodies, build confidence, and make informed decisions.
Students demonstrating what they have learnt during menstruation session
Beatrice Banda, a student from Kapanda CDSS said the sessions have helped many young people feel comfortable discussing issues that were previously difficult to talk about.
“Before these sessions, many of us were shy to ask questions. Now we understand that it is important to know about our health and where to get the right information,” Beatrice said.
Beatrice commends health education session as helpful, saying learners lacked such information
Teachers have also welcomed the project because it is supporting the work already being done in schools.
“The project has created a friendly environment where learners can ask questions freely. We have seen that they are becoming more confident and willing to discuss important issues,” said Mr. Banda, a teacher.
Mr. Banda applauds Ungweru for empowering learners through health education sessions
A community youth club member said the clubs are giving young people a sense of support and belonging. “We now have a place where young people can meet, learn, and help each other. It is easier to talk about challenges when you know you will not be judged,” explained Nelson, one of the youth members of Msomba youth club.
Nelson, a member of Msomba Youth Club, agrees to the importance of community youth clubs in giving young people support and a sense of belonging
The project has also introduced the INSPIRE initiative to key stakeholders, including the Technical Working Group, District Executive Committee, Area Development Committees, school authorities, and community youth clubs. An awareness meeting with partners was also held to strengthen cooperation and create a supportive environment for young people to access SRHR information and services.
Advancing SRHR education during an awareness meeting held at Tukombo fisheries ground
Beyond face-to-face activities, the project is using digital platforms to reach more people with SRHR messages. Through online posts and discussions, INSPIRE has reached about 4,500 people, giving young people more opportunities to continue learning and engage with reliable information.
Since the beginning of the project, INSPIRE has directly reached 1,954 young people through school and community youth club activities. This includes 1,043 girls and 901 boys, showing the project’s commitment to reaching young people in an inclusive way.
As implementation continues, Ungweru Organisation remains committed to strengthening partnerships, expanding access to accurate SRHR information, and supporting healthier, better-informed, and more empathetic communities of young people in Nkhata Bay District