Youth for a Sustainable World (YSW), formerly known as DSW, has officially rebranded in Kenya, marking a new chapter in its mission to empower young people and improve access to reproductive health services.
The launch event, held at Methodist Church Changamwe, also served as a belated celebration of World Condom Day, observed every year on February 13 to promote safe sex and HIV prevention.
With Kenya’s youth facing high rates of HIV infections, teenage pregnancies, and gender-based violence, YSW is doubling down on efforts to provide sexual health education, contraception, and HIV prevention services.
Funding Cuts a Threat to HIV Prevention
The event also highlighted growing concerns over the impact of U.S. funding cuts on reproductive health programs in Kenya.
“Many clinics that relied on USAID funding are already shutting down. If this continues, we will see more HIV infections, higher viral loads, and increased mother-to-child transmission,” said Evelyne Samba, YSW’s Country Director.
Angela Bahrr, Chief Programs Director at DSW Germany, echoed the concern, urging the Kenyan government to act fast.
“The health system is at risk. If clinics close, people will lose access to treatment, and the progress we have made in fighting HIV/AIDS will be reversed,” she warned.
Bahrr called for the establishment of a sustainable health insurance system to ensure poor and vulnerable communities continue receiving care.
“If Kenya takes the lead, I am sure other international donors will step in to support this effort,” she added.
The unveiling of YSW’s new identity drew significant partnerships between the organization and other grassroots community-based organizations, including KIOTA, Give for Good (G4G) Kenya, The Amplifiers Youths Organization (TAYO), SEYA, amongst others who implement reproductive health initiatives for youth.
Richard Ruoti, a Youth officer from the Department of Youth Affairs in Mombasa County, also commended YSW for its significant impact on youth empowerment.
“Youth for a Sustainable World has been at the forefront of addressing the reproductive health challenges faced by young people in this county,” Ruoti said. “Their programs not only raise awareness but also provide practical support for our youth to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.”
He emphasized the importance of continued collaboration between organizations like YSW and government agencies to effectively address reproductive health issues in the county.
“With the right partnerships and sustained efforts, we can ensure that every young person has access to the resources they need to lead healthy lives,” Ruoti added.
How YSW is Changing Lives
For many young people, YSW’s programs have been life-changing. Mghendi Menza, a youth advocate from Mtwapa, Kilifi, credits the organization for shaping his future.
“Back in 2013, when YSW was still DSW, they ran a program targeting young adolescents. That’s where I learned about sexual health, consent, and life skills,” Menza said.
He recalls how cultural myths and taboos made it difficult to talk about sex education in his community.
“I didn’t know when it was safe to engage in sex or how to protect myself. These are topics people don’t discuss openly,” he said.
Today, Menza is the Executive Director of a youth organization and runs a project funded by YSW.
“Because of what I learned, I became a youth advocate and now help others access the same services,” he added.
He urged young people to take advantage of HIV testing and counseling services to protect their health.
“I call on all young people to get tested and stay informed. Let’s make sure we are healthy and avoid unwanted pregnancies and STIs,” he said.
YSW’s Next Steps
YSW’s transformation into an independent, Kenyan-led organization began in 2023, after more than two decades of advocating for youth rights, gender equality, and access to health services.
Moving forward, the organization plans to expand its reach, strengthen youth networks, and push for better policies on reproductive health and rights.
“Our goal is to break barriers and ensure every young person has access to the information and services they need,” YSW leaders said.
With growing challenges and a shrinking donor base, the future of youth reproductive health services in Kenya remains uncertain. But for YSW, the fight is far from over.
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