One of the most pressing issues in public health today lies at the intersection of climate change and Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR). As communities worldwide grapple with the challenges posed by environmental changes, health systems must adapt to ensure inclusivity, equity, and resilience in healthcare delivery.
As the Regional Health Promotion Conference 2025 approaches, the spotlight turns to one of the most pressing issues of our time: the intersection of climate change and Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR).
The conference, guided by the overarching goal of advancing Universal Health Coverage through inclusive and intersectional approaches, emphasizes integrating community-driven solutions to tackle health inequities.
A case study from Zimbabwe, from the ACTIVE (Active Citizenship Through Inclusive Volunteering) project has emerged as a shining example of how community-driven initiatives can enhance health outcomes amidst climate challenges.
This project, implemented in the Chimanimani and Masvingo districts, demonstrates how integrating climate resilience into healthcare can address existing health inequities while promoting universal health coverage.
Bridging gaps in maternal health and youth services
Climate change has disproportionately impacted vulnerable communities in Zimbabwe, disrupting road networks, access to healthcare, and delivery of life-saving commodities. In a country where maternal mortality rates remain alarmingly high at 363 deaths per 100,000 live births, innovative solutions are critical.
The ACTIVE project has responded by collaborating with local civil society organisations and communities to address these challenges.
One such initiative under implementation is the construction of a Mother Shelter at Zvamahande Clinic. Once completed, this shelter will provide pregnant women a safe place to stay at the clinic as their due dates approach, significantly reducing the risks associated with long-distance travel or giving birth at home.
A nurse at Zvamahande Clinic remarked, “The construction of the Mother Shelter will address issues of high maternal immortality rates within our communities, which will help assist more pregnant women to deliver safely as they can stay closer to the clinic when their due dates approach.”
The local leadership has also expressed optimism about the project’s potential impact. The Village Head of Zvamahande stated, “The mothers waiting area will help reduce women giving birth at home or on the way to the clinic, which can result in complications.”
By addressing these critical infrastructure gaps, the project is poised to contribute significantly to safer maternal health outcomes and aligns with universal health coverage goals.
Equally important is the establishment of a Youth Friendly Health Centre within the same clinic. Designed to provide a safe and welcoming space for young people to access health-related services, this initiative ensures that youth can seek help without fear of judgment or stigma.
A youth from Mashava remarked, “The establishment of the Youth Friendly Centre will assist us young people to get health-related services in a friendly environment without fear of being judged.” By prioritising youth engagement, the project underscores the importance of inclusivity in healthcare delivery.
Building resilient systems through social accountability
Central to the success of the ACTIVE project is its emphasis on community ownership. Social Accountability Monitoring (SAM) clubs have been established to empower local communities, particularly women and youth, to actively participate in shaping health policies and programs.
Through advocacy training, community members have amplified their voices, ensuring their needs and priorities are integrated into decision-making processes.
For instance, these efforts have influenced the allocation of resources for the construction of vital infrastructure, such as the Mother Shelter and Youth Friendly Health Centre. This approach exemplifies the transformative potential of grassroots action in building equitable health systems.
Tackling the intersection of climate change and health
While the conversation around climate change often centres on environmental impacts, it is essential to recognize how it disproportionately affects marginalized populations, particularly women and vulnerable communities.
The ACTIVE project’s initiatives align with the broader need to integrate climate resilience into healthcare systems. Sexual and reproductive health is a fundamental component of human rights, influencing individuals’ ability to make informed decisions about their bodies and lives.
Access to family planning, maternal health services, and sex education are vital for ensuring that people can enjoy healthy lives and futures. Climate change exacerbates vulnerabilities, particularly among marginalized groups, by disrupting essential services and worsening socio-economic inequities.
To address these challenges, the project has focused on strengthening infrastructure, engaging men in health programs, and promoting inclusivity.
Additionally, SRHR education has been a cornerstone of these efforts. By raising awareness and fostering dialogue on critical issues like gender-based violence and family planning, the project has contributed to improved community cohesion and reduced health disparities.
These comprehensive strategies resonate with global calls for intersectional approaches to inclusive health promotion.
A call to action
To build resilient, climate-adaptive health systems, the following actions are critical:
- Empower Communities: Actively involve marginalized groups, especially women and youth, in shaping and implementing health initiatives. This empowerment is pivotal for sustainable and inclusive health systems.
- Adopt Intersectional Strategies: Tackle overlapping challenges posed by climate change, gender inequities, and socio-economic disparities. Integrate climate resilience into SRHR policies and programs for comprehensive solutions.
- Strengthen Partnerships: Foster collaboration among governments, local organizations, and international stakeholders. Unified efforts amplify the impact of health interventions and ensure long-term sustainability.
- Invest in Climate-Resilient Infrastructure: Develop healthcare facilities and supply chains that withstand climate-related disruptions, ensuring uninterrupted access to critical services.
- Promote Advocacy and Inclusivity: Enhance the capacity of local communities to engage in health decision-making processes. Prioritize the voices of the underserved to build equitable health systems.
The ACTIVE project in Zimbabwe serves as a model for how targeted interventions can drive transformative change. By integrating climate resilience into healthcare and empowering communities, the project offers valuable lessons for building inclusive, sustainable health systems.
These insights should inspire actionable strategies across Africa to ensure no one is left behind in the pursuit of universal health coverage.
Join us at the Regional Health Promotion Conference 2025
Taking place on Tuesday 18 March and Wednesday 19 March, 2025 at Safari Park Hotel in Nairobi, Kenya, this conference is designed to reimagine universal health coverage through the lens of intersectionality.
Through expert-led sessions, case studies, and collaborative discussions, this conference aims to ensure that health systems are responsive to the unique and intersecting needs of all individuals, particularly those most often excluded. This is not just an event—it is a movement to champion health equity and advance universal health coverage for every person, everywhere.
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