CLIMATE change is threatening our planet’s sustainability, with overwhelming social, cultural, economic, health and human rights impacts, increasing vulnerability and exploitation of girls.
This was revealed at the annual Youth Indaba organised by the National Aids Council in collaboration with Plan International, set against the backdrop of the just-ended Zimbabwe International Trade Fair.
The discussion was meant to continue with the tradition of fostering meaningful dialogue and action on sexual and reproductive health rights (SRHR).
Plan International Zimbabwe’s programme facilitator Nomzamo Ncube says under the My Body My Future (MBMF) programme they are targeting at ensuring that children, adolescents and youths, in all their diversity, have control over their bodies and future in a healthy, safe and supportive environment.
“This year’s indaba is not just a talk show; it is a clarion call for sustained action and innovation in the realm of SRHR, ensuring that the voices of the youth are not just heard, but are instrumental in shaping policies and practices for a healthier, more equitable future,” Ncube said.
Ncube said the indaba focused on the conventional scope, tackling emergent concerns such as the impact of climate change on SRH and the persistent challenge of sexual harassment and gender-based violence.
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During the discussions, a handful of impacts of negative effects of climate change on girls emerged, as Ncube displayed the observations from the awareness campaigns.
“Water shortages affect young women using reusable pads, posing a threat to cancer when they use unsafe water for washing; climate change increases vulnerability and exploitation of girls,” said Ncube.
Poverty has forced girls to indulge in sexual activity (selling sex) for survival, of which, in such cases, it is even hard to negotiate for safer sex, due to vulnerability and exploitation, making them susceptible to abuse.
Meanwhile, through support from the Local Government ministry and Bulawayo City Council, Plan International has proactively supported the city to develop a disaster preparedness and response plan to ensure prioritisation of SRHR service provision to young people.
Plan International Zimbabwe is an organisation that has been operating to advance children’s rights and equality for girls.