Empowering Youth Through Accessible Reproductive Health Services in Rumphi District

Buwira Youth Outreach

For many young people in rural Malawi, access to sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services remains limited by distance, stigma, and lack of youth-friendly spaces. In Rumphi District, adolescents and young adults often travel long distances to reach health facilities, a challenge that discourages timely access to essential services such as HIV testing, STI screening, and family planning. As a result, preventable health risks, including unplanned teenage pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections, continue to affect the lives and futures of young people.

In response to these challenges, LICO, in collaboration with Rumphi District Hospital, conducted a community-based SRH outreach in Buwila Community, bringing critical health services directly to young people where they live. The outreach provided a range of integrated services, including HIV testing and counselling, STI screening and treatment, cervical cancer screening, and access to modern contraceptives, all delivered in a safe and youth-friendly environment.

A defining feature of the outreach was the active involvement of young people themselves. Youth groups in Buwila organised football and netball activities as part of the program, using sports as an entry point to mobilise their peers and create a relaxed, inclusive space for engagement. This approach helped reduce fear and stigma often associated with accessing SRH services while reinforcing positive peer influence and participation.

Beyond service delivery, the outreach created opportunities for meaningful dialogue around sexual and reproductive health, consent, and informed decision-making. Health professionals from Rumphi District Hospital provided accurate information and confidential counselling, enabling young people to better understand their health choices and available services. This combination of information, services, and peer-led engagement contributed to increased uptake and openness among participants.

LICO’s approach to youth sexual and reproductive health is rooted in its Strategic Plan 2026–2030, which prioritises youth empowerment, preventive health, and community-based service delivery. By decentralising services and working closely with public health institutions, LICO helps reduce structural barriers while strengthening trust between young people and the health system.

Community members and local leaders welcomed the outreach, recognising its importance in protecting young people’s health and future prospects. Bringing services closer not only saves time and transport costs but also signals that young people’s health needs are valid and deserving of attention.

While this outreach marks an important step forward, many communities across Rumphi District continue to face similar access challenges. LICO remains committed to expanding youth-friendly SRH outreach services in partnership with health authorities, but sustained impact depends on continued collaboration and support.

Through initiatives like the Buwila outreach, LICO is contributing to healthier, informed, and resilient young people who are better equipped to make decisions that shape their futures.