The Forum for African Women Educationalists of Zambia (FAWEZA), in collaboration with Young Women in Action (YWA) under the Make Way Programme, convened a Youth-Led Budget Analysis Policy Brief Meeting on Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) at Radisson Blu Hotel in Lusaka.

Held under the theme “Advancing Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights through Primary Health Care Investment”, the meeting brought together key stakeholders, including Members of Parliament (MPs) and Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), to reflect on Zambia’s health financing priorities and advocate for stronger integration of SRHR into national policies.

Guest speaker Hon. Joseph Munsanje, Chairperson of the Parliamentary Caucus on SRHR and MP for Mbabala Constituency, emphasized that investments in SRHR are investments in Zambia’s future.

“A future where healthcare is accessible, childbirth is safe, and all young people are empowered to thrive,” he said.

He added that the budget analysis policy brief meeting was not only a reflection of Parliament’s commitment to SRHR but also a call for collective action to uphold the health, dignity, and bodily autonomy of young people across the country.

During the session, a presentation on Zambia’s health budget analysis and SRHR trends highlighted important progress, including the integration of SRHR services into the National Health Insurance Scheme and the establishment of Youth-Friendly Spaces in newly constructed health facilities.

The meeting was attended by MPs from constituencies including Mbabala, Siavonga, Itezhi Tezhi, and Lundazi, as well as consortium partners such as VSO, Cheshire Homes Society of Zambia (CHSZ), WAFE, among others.