Youths Urge Parents to Break Silence on SRH

Youths in northern Malawi have called on parents to break the silence on sensitive topics and initiate open, honest discussions about Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) rights with their children.

The call was made on Saturday at Malema II in the area of Traditional Authority Kyungu during a Big Walk organized by Pamoza Tingakwaniska Youth Organization, aimed at raising awareness of SRH services.

Maina Munthali, Chairperson of Malema II Youth Club, emphasized that poor communication between parents and adolescents is a key factor contributing to premarital sex and teenage pregnancies in Karonga. She noted that parents can be a vital source of accurate information on SRH.

“When parents create a safe and non-judgmental space for us to ask questions and share our concerns, we are more likely to seek their advice and guidance. Unfortunately, many parents still see discussions about SRH as taboo,” Munthali said.

Another youth, Lizzie Mwangonde, highlighted the importance of trust and openness in parent-child relationships, particularly regarding SRH conversations.

Emmanuel Moyo, Pamoza’s Media Officer, stressed that parental communication on SRHR is crucial in reducing health risks associated with sexual behavior.

“An adolescent who openly discusses SRHR with a parent or guardian is more likely to delay early sexual activity or use contraceptives compared to those who do not have such discussions,” Moyo stated.

With support from the Breuckmann Foundation and Germany’s Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development, Pamoza is implementing the Pamoza One-Stop Centre Project (POSC) in Karonga to enhance SRH education and services.