South Sudan's English Daily Newspaper
"We Dare where others fear"
By Simon Deng
Jamnel Care Organization on Wednesday called for improved access to sexual and reproductive health services for girls and women across the country.
Nelly Onditi, program Coordinator for Jamnel Care highlighted that Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights (SRHR) are not only about healthcare but also dignity, autonomy, and ensuring a future where every individual can make informed decisions about their body and life.
“SRHR services and education are fundamental in shaping healthier and more empowered Communities, when individuals, particularly women and young people, have Access to the right information and services, they can make informed decisions that impact not Only their well-being but also the development of their communities,” said Onditi on Tuesday in a statement.
Onditi said that SRHR services encompass a wide range of critical areas, including family planning, maternal Healthcare, and the prevention and treatment of sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
He noted that many individuals especially in underserved areas still face significant challenges in accessing these services.
Onditi also stressed that limited healthcare infrastructure, poverty, cultural barriers, and misinformation continue to prevent many from receiving the care they need.
“Too often, we see the consequences of lack of access of family planning tools lead to unplanned pregnancies, unsafe abortions, high maternal mortality rates, and the spread of STIs. These challenges can be overcome with a collective effort from governments, healthcare providers, and communities,” she said.
Onditi noted that one such effort was the SRHR training conducted in Liria from October 22 to 24, 2024, which brought together young people, community leaders, and beneficiaries eager to learn about their rights and health.
“Public awareness campaigns are essential in shifting attitudes and dismantling harmful stigmas, Technology is also playing a crucial role in bridging gaps in access. Mobile health platforms and telemedicine services are increasingly being utilized to connect individuals in remote areas with vital SRHR information and support.”
Caroletta Beda, a beneficiary who attended the training and left with a renewed sense of empowerment said she never had the chance to understand her rights when it came to reproductive health.
“In my community, talking about these issues is often seen as shameful. But after the training, I realized that knowing my rights and having access to health services means having control over my future. I now feel confident in advocating for myself and others,” she said.
Beda’s story is just one example of the transformative impact SRHR education can have on individuals. She is now determined to share her knowledge with other young women in her community, breaking the cycle of misinformation and stigma surrounding sexual and reproductive health.
“Women and girls who have access to reproductive healthcare and education can pursue their ambitions, complete their education, and contribute to their communities in meaningful ways. Families become more economically stable, and communities thrive when their members are healthy and empowered,” she said.
“By prioritizing SRHR, we are not just improving individual lives; we are building stronger, healthier, and more equitable communities, it is now up to policymakers, organizations, and communities to sustain this progress and ensure that no woman or young person is left behind in the fight for their rights
Jamnel Care Organization is working closely with various stakeholders to ensure that SRHR services become more accessible and policymakers, healthcare professionals, and community leaders to collaborate in strengthening healthcare systems, educating the public.
