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Sexual and reproductive health in Eswatini



Sexual and reproductive health (SRH) concerns the well-being of women, as well as that of their partners and children. The country is accelerating efforts toward the realization of Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and strengthening the access and utilization of SRH services at all levels is one of the key initiatives that the Ministry of Health is targeting. High maternal mortality rate, high adolescent fertility rate, unmet need for family planning, and on-going problems with sexual and gender based violence (SGBV) are some of the indicators that highlight a need for a comprehensive sexuality education and evidence based interventions. This Policy provides concrete areas of focus and is aligned to international and national policies and frameworks. It addresses reproductive health and rights challenges faced by citizens of Swaziland and outlines implications for the different levels in the Ministry. It also recognises the role that other sectors play in improving the SRH of the people of the Kingdom of Swaziland. This policy takes cognizance of the existing policies, frameworks and guidelines, in particular the National Health Policy which forms the basis for all population related programmes. The development of the policy involved extensive consultations with key informants and stakeholders in government and NGOs as well as opinion leaders at both the national, regional, Inkhundla and chiefdom levels. Young people, men and women as well as Community leaders were also consulted. This document is designed to be used by policymakers, program managers and service providers at all levels in both public and private sectors in SRH. It forms the basis and mandate for all SRH activities, outlining the national strategic pillars for improving SRH. It will also enable us forge new partnerships - between governments and communities, nongovernmental organizations, development partners and the private sector - that are critical if we are to succeed in the implementation of integrated SRH services.
(PDF) Swaziland National Policy on Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights. Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/216604707_Swaziland_National_Policy_on_Sexual_and_Reproductive_Health_and_Rights.

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