We can’t let ICPD25 promises remain unfulfilled

Since time immemorial, nature’s catastrophes have had the uncanny ability to reveal the shortcomings of societal structures.

The Covid-19 pandemic has done no less across the world. In Kenya, the ailing health sector has been overstretched.

Social vices such as intimate partner violence, defilement, rape and female circumcision are surging amid restrictions in movements.

With the growing stigma and criminalisation associated with coronavirus, women and girls are further shying away from seeking sexual and reproductive health care from health facilities.

The pandemic has not spared the justice system. Recently, Chief Justice David Maraga spoke of the slow operations of the courts, leading to delayed justice.

The number of sexual and reproductive health violations recorded during this period have the potential to significantly reverse the gains made in the last five years and have a negative impact on the reaffirmed commitments during the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD25) held in Kenya last year.  Commitments were made towards accelerating the promise of ICPD25 among them sexual and reproductive rights.

It is crucial that the government maintains stability in other health components even as it controls Covid-19.

The pandemic tests our resilience as a nation, but with it comes a silver lining that provides an opportunity to implement the great policies and legal frameworks developed over the years. Kenyan leaders need to put in place bold strategies to implement the policies, working hand in hand with other state and non-state actors.

Ms Kroeger is a sexual and reproductive health programme officer  at the Kenya Legal and Ethical Issues Network on HIV/Aids