Learning, Collaboration, and Youth Leadership Take Center Stage at the 9th RHNK Pan-African Conference

What does it take to advance Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) in a rapidly changing world? For hundreds of advocates, researchers, policymakers, young people, and development practitioners who gathered in Mombasa, Kenya, for the 9th Reproductive Health Network Kenya (RHNK) Pan-African Adolescent and Youth SRHR Conference, the answer lies in collaboration, innovation, evidence, and meaningful youth engagement.

Held from 2-5 June 2026, the conference brought together stakeholders from across Africa to share experiences, showcase research, and explore practical solutions to some of the most pressing SRHR challenges facing young people today.

The conference opened with a strong call for collective action. Speakers emphasized that while significant progress has been made in improving access to SRHR information and services, many young people across the continent continue to face barriers that limit their ability to make informed decisions about their health and wellbeing.

Dr. Edward Serem, Head of the Division of Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn, Child and Adolescent Health at Kenya's Ministry of Health, highlighted the importance of creating spaces where young people can meaningfully participate in shaping policies and programmes that affect their lives. His remarks set the tone for a conference that consistently placed young people at the centre of discussions.

Throughout the four-day event, participants explored a wide range of issues, including youth participation, self-care, disability inclusion, maternal health, domestic financing, gender-based violence prevention, and the role of evidence in influencing policy decisions. A recurring theme across sessions was the need to move beyond isolated interventions and embrace approaches that place communities, especially young people, at the heart of solutions.

One of the most valuable aspects of the conference was the opportunity for organizations from different countries to learn from one another. Through presentations, panel discussions, exhibitions, and networking sessions, participants exchanged ideas, shared successful approaches, and reflected on lessons learned from implementing programmes in diverse contexts.

Research and evidence also featured prominently. Presenters showcased innovative approaches to improving access to SRHR information and services, strengthening accountability mechanisms, and promoting youth-led advocacy. The discussions demonstrated how evidence can be used not only to understand challenges but also to influence policy, improve programming, and drive sustainable change.

Martha Nabaasa Mugabe from Reproductive Health Uganda, with a poster presentation at the conference

The conference exhibition space further highlighted the diversity of work taking place across the region. Organizations used the platform to showcase innovative programmes, share resources, and build partnerships that can strengthen future collaboration. Informal interactions around the exhibition booths often sparked some of the most insightful conversations, creating opportunities for peer learning and relationship building.

Another notable discussion focused on self-care and its role in advancing SRHR outcomes. Participants emphasized the importance of making self-care information accessible and easy to understand, particularly for adolescents and young people. The conversation reinforced the need for communication approaches that speak to communities in simple, relatable language while ensuring that accurate information reaches those who need it most.

For many participants, the conference served as a reminder that the challenges facing young people across Africa are often interconnected. Whether discussing access to information, quality health services, financing, or meaningful participation, there was a shared recognition that progress requires coordinated efforts from governments, civil society, communities, and young people themselves.

Beyond the presentations and formal sessions, the conference created a space for reflection on the future of SRHR programming in Africa. Participants left with new ideas, strengthened partnerships, and renewed commitment to advancing rights-based, inclusive, and youth-centered approaches.

As the conference came to a close, one message remained clear: meaningful progress in SRHR is built through learning from one another, investing in young people's leadership, and working together across sectors and borders. In a region rich with innovation, resilience, and expertise, collaboration continues to be one of the most powerful tools for creating lasting change.

Joshua Mirondo is a program associate with Transition Earth, based in Uganda.