Young people between age 15-24 years constitute about 60% of the total population of Kenya. They are usually more sexually active than the general population making them to be at more risk of HIV /STDs infections and having unwanted pregnancies. It is due to these reasons they are usually among the vulnerable group in the society.
According to African population and health research done in Kenya 2014, almost half of the pregnancies in age group 15-24 years are usually unplanned for. Lack of access to sexual reproductive health services and information was the main cause of these unwanted pregnancies. Cases of new HIV infections are on the rise amongst young people. According to the Kenya demographic and health survey 2014, women and men between ages 15-19 have lower levels of knowledge on HIV prevention methods. Over 30% of young people in Kenya are not knowledgeable about methods of HIV prevention. Incorrect use of condoms has been cited as one of the factors that has led to new HIV infections in the country.
A lot of young people still face barriers in accessing sexual reproductive health information and services. Even those who are able to find accurate information about reproductive health may be unable to access the services needed to protect their health.
If young people don’t have access to sexual reproductive health information and services then it means we will have almost half of the entire population in Kenya at risk of getting infected with HIV, STIs and having unplanned pregnancies. To maintain the good sexual reproductive health of young people, they need to have access to accurate information and safe affordable, effective, quality and acceptable contraception method of their choice. Young people must be empowered and informed to protect themselves from sexually transmitted diseases and from unwanted pregnancies.
The National government and county governments must deliver efficient holistic youth friendly health care package of services in all parts of the country. We have very few youth friendly services in this country and this has to change if we really care about the young people of this country. Each and every young person in this country should have access to accurate sexual and reproductive health information, a range of safe and affordable contraception methods, sensitive counselling, quality antenatal and obstetric care for all pregnant women and finally to be protected from sexually transmitted diseases.
Prevention is better than cure. Protect the health of young people for them to have a better tomorrow and for a prosperous Kenya. A healthy nation is a rich nation
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