The Rural Initiatives for Self-Empowerment Ghana (RISE-Ghana), an advocacy Non-Governmental Organisation, has initiated a year-long project aimed at improving access to sexual and reproductive health services among adolescents in border communities, particularly during emergencies.
The project, titled “Advancing Adolescent Sexual Reproductive Health Rights within Sahel and Other Emergencies in Upper East,” is supported by funding from the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF).
The project will concentrate on Bongo, Bawku West, and Kassena-Nankana West Districts, where the goal is to advocate for increased access to sexual and reproductive health services, nutrition, and safeguarding services for adolescents.
The initiative will identify, mobilize, and empower influencers, gatekeepers, service providers, and duty-bearers to create protective environments for adolescents in these areas.
Ms. Jaw-haratu Amadu, Head of Programmes at RISE-Ghana, highlighted the challenges faced by adolescents in border communities, particularly in the wake of spillover effects from the Sahel region.
The project aims to work closely with stakeholders through a “Community of Practice” to plan and prioritize interventions addressing the unique needs of young people during emergencies.
A rapid needs assessment conducted before the project revealed that many adolescents lacked accurate information about sexual and reproductive health rights and services.
The project will focus on education and engagement to provide adolescents with essential information, including menstrual hygiene, nutrition, and the benefits of local foods.
The newly formed Community of Practice includes key stakeholders such as the Ghana Health Service, Ghana Education Service, National Disaster Management Organisation, traditional leaders, adolescents, social welfare, and community members.
The collaboration seeks to address the multifaceted needs of adolescents during emergencies, extending beyond physical well-being to include emotional and reproductive health.
Local leaders, including Mr John Agana, an Accountant at Bongo District NADMO, and Queen Mother Pognaba Veronica Anaam, expressed appreciation for RISE-Ghana and UNICEF's intervention.
They emphasized the importance of collective efforts from community stakeholders to intensify education among young people, aiming to reduce teenage pregnancy, alcoholism, drug abuse, and other risky behaviours.
