What About the Boys & Young Men?

In the vibrant coastal city of Mombasa, Kenya, where the warm ocean breeze mingles with the sounds of bustling markets and laughter of children playing in the streets, a group of young activists gathered at a local community center. Their mission? To address a crucial aspect of sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) that often goes unnoticed – the importance of condom use among the youth.

The group of young activists prepared for their condom use demonstration. They knew that their message was not just about protection but about empowering the youth to make informed choices about their bodies and their futures.

The room was set up with colorful posters depicting the various aspects of SRHR. The atmosphere buzzed with a mix of excitement and nervousness, as the young activists knew they were about to tackle a sensitive topic that could make a real difference in the lives of their peers.

Amidst the group was Benja, a charismatic and determined young dude who had experienced firsthand the lack of information and access to contraceptives that plagued many of his friends. He stepped forward to address the gathering, his voice steady but filled with passion. Benja shared stories of young lives impacted by unplanned pregnancies, and the barriers that prevented open discussions about sexual health.

With the aid of a hard black anatomical penile model on his hand, and a respectful yet candid approach, Benja demonstrated how to properly use a male condom. Laughter and camaraderie filled the room, dissipating the initial awkwardness. The demonstration covered topics ranging from correct condom storage to the importance of obtaining condoms from reliable sources including the County approved Department of Health Level 2 Drop In Centers. The underlying message was clear: condom use wasn’t just about preventing unwanted pregnancies, but also about safeguarding against sexually transmitted infections and asserting control over one’s own body.

As the demonstration concluded, the room was abuzz with conversations and questions. The activists handed out informational pamphlets and free condoms and water based lubricants, emphasizing the importance of spreading the knowledge and encouraging open dialogue about SRHR. The event was a success, not just in terms of imparting knowledge but also in fostering an environment where young people felt comfortable discussing a topic often shrouded in secrecy.

In the weeks that followed, the impact of the demonstration rippled through Mombasa and Kilifi cities. Peer-led discussions sprung up at the Technical University of Mombasa (TUM), at community gatherings, and even online platforms. The youth of Mombasa were taking charge of their sexual health, armed with knowledge and a newfound confidence to make informed choices.

The sun rose and set over Mombasa as life continued, but something had shifted. The stigma surrounding conversations about sexual health was slowly dismantling, and the youth were embracing their right to SRHR. The condom use demonstration was a small yet significant step towards creating a healthier and more informed generation, one that recognized the power of choice, protection, and education in shaping their own destinies.

Benja is an SRHR champion and a Young Father.

RESPEKT (Reproductive and Sexual health Programme for Kenyan Teenagers)