Peer-reviewed article
A critical evaluation of adolescent sexual and reproductive health and rights in Rwanda.
Habikigeni BD, Parfaite UMM, Siddig EE, Ndicunguye VM ·
Summary
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Abstract
Adolescent sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) are critical to ensuring the well-being and empowerment of young people, particularly in low-resource settings like Rwanda. Despite progressive policies and commitments aligned with global frameworks such as the Sustainable Development Goals, adolescents in Rwanda face persistent barriers including cultural stigma, gender inequalities, geographic disparities, and infra-structural limitations that hinder access to comprehensive SRHR services. This commentary critically examines Rwanda's policy landscape, highlights key challenges in implementation, and explores disparities based on gender, location, and disability. It emphasizes the urgent need for multisectoral, community-engaged strategies, improved data systems, and targeted interventions to close critical gaps. Strengthening the operationalization of policies and fostering youth participation are essential to advancing adolescent SRHR and realizing their full rights in Rwanda's journey toward health and development equity.