By Thuraya Kiwala

Neno, December 1, Mana: Neno District Council Youth Office with support from Partners in Health (PIH) hosted the Youth and Adolescent Art Festival to mobilize and empower young people to address critical issues of sexual reproductive health rights and gender-based violence in the district.

Speaking at the festival on Saturday at Neno Community Hall, Neno District Youth Officer, Ian Sukali said the festival was meant to break barriers that exist in accessing Sexual Reproductive Health (SRH) services on top of addressing issues of Gender Based Violence (GBV) among young people in the district.

“This festival was designed to address critical challenges young people face in accessing health and legal support services,”

“By integrating recreational activities, we have created a safe space where youth can engage meaningfully, showcase their talents and learn about these important issues,” Sukali added.

Held under the theme; Promoting Youth Access to SRH and GBV Services through Recreational Activities, the festival raised SRH and GBV awareness among young people.

One of the participants, a student at Chiwale Secondary School, Fiona Seleman hailed the organizers for providing an opportunity for young people to discuss SRH and GBV issues through the art festival,

“Many girls lack important information on health services which could help in preventing teen pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections,

“The festival was relevant to young people. It provided an opportunity for us to get knowledge on critical issues,” she added and described the art festival as fun and youth-friendly,” she said.

Interactive workshops and information booths were major highlights, providing attendees with counselling, educational materials, and confidential consultations with health professionals.

The festival which coincided with the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign drew young people from across the district for a day of live music, comedy, drama, poetry, weightlifting, and dance competitions.

Beyond the fun, the event served as a platform to educate and empower youth, providing vital information and services in an accessible and engaging format.