WVD in Africa
Shaping the Future of Family Health: Sexual Reproductive Health Alliance Conference
The Sexual Reproductive Health Alliance Conference, held on November 21, 2024, at the Taj Pamodzi Hotel in Lusaka Zambia , brought together experts and advocates to discuss male engagement in family planning and was graced by the minister of health Dr Elija Muchima, who read the speech on behalf of the Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema. With a theme focused on “fostering family health collaborations” the conference fostered collaboration among government officials, healthcare providers, and civil society leaders to improve sexual and reproductive health services.
Community Insights on Family Planning and Men’s Health
On November 14, 2024, WVD in Uganda successfully conducted marketplace interviews engaging over 30 randomly selected participants, both male and female in Nakawa Market. Led by Ms. Akao Phiona Morrow, the communications officer, the activity explored community perspectives on family planning, vasectomy, and ways to enhance men’s health-seeking behaviors. The discussions revealed that while many women supported the idea of men undergoing vasectomies, they expressed a need for more education on the procedure. On the other hand, most men were hesitant, citing fears of losing the ability to achieve an erection as a major concern. These insights highlight the importance of continued community sensitization to address misconceptions and promote informed decision-making about men’s health and family planning.
Empowering Future Healthcare Providers: Student Health Webinar on Vasectomy
On November 16, 2024, WVD conducted the 5th Providers Summit in Lusaka, Zambia, at Loyola Production. This summit educated medical students on vasectomy and provided a launchpad for specialized courses on the procedure. Through expert presentations and interactive discussions, future healthcare providers gained essential knowledge about vasectomy as an effective family planning method.
WVD celebrates World Vasectomy Day in Uganda
On November 22, 2024, stakeholders, healthcare professionals, and community leaders gathered at Hotel Africana for the World Vasectomy Day celebrations, a global 24-hour event streamed on Zoom and Facebook Live highlighting men’s critical role in family planning. The event, led by WVD Uganda’s Community Liaison Officer, Mr. Mwima Mubakali, featured keynote speakers from Reproductive Health Uganda and Marie Stopes, who debunked myths and emphasized vasectomy as a safe and effective option. Personal stories and discussions addressed cultural and religious concerns, while participants recommended scaling outreach to rural areas, training healthcare providers, and fostering partnerships with community leaders. The day reinforced the importance of male engagement in achieving sustainable family planning solutions.
WVD in Zambia holds Talent Creative Award to inspire change in the health sector
The Talent Creative Award, held on November 2, 2024, at the Lechwe Trust Gallery in Lusaka, Zambia, brought together visual artists, poets, and performers to explore and challenge traditional ideas of masculinity. The event, centered on “Positive Masculinity,” encouraged artists to use their platforms for advocacy in family planning and broader societal responsibilities.
Advocating for Male Involvement in Family Planning through Cultural and Religious Leadership
On November 13, 2024, WVD in Uganda hosted a groundbreaking workshop at Eureka Palace Hotel under the An Act of Love Project, gathering cultural and religious leaders to address male involvement in family planning. The workshop emphasized leaders’ critical role in shaping community attitudes and breaking cultural and religious barriers. Participants engaged in discussions, presentations, and collaborative activities to promote shared responsibility in reproductive health. Key achievements included enhanced awareness of male roles in family planning, developing actionable outreach plans, and strengthening interfaith collaborations. By integrating family planning advocacy into their teachings, leaders committed to addressing misconceptions and empowering communities for healthier, more equitable family planning outcomes.
Training Healthcare Professionals in No-Scalpel Vasectomy Technique in Zambia
WVD in Zambia conducted a hands-on training session from November 18-22, 2024, which equipped 4 healthcare professionals with the skills needed to perform the no-scalpel vasectomy procedure and during the same week 135 vasectomies procedures were performed. The initiative aimed to expand access to this family planning method by increasing the number of trained practitioners across Zambia.
Community Dialogue on Family Planning in Kampala District Uganda, Empowering Families and Raising Awareness
In a series of community dialogues held in Kampala district in Kawempe, Mbuya, and Rubaga, 20 participants gathered to discuss family planning, sharing knowledge, and raising awareness about reproductive health. The WVD Uganda team led the sessions, highlighting various family planning methods with a particular focus on vasectomy as an effective and often overlooked option for men. By breaking down the method’s benefits and addressing myths, the team encouraged men to consider vasectomy as a safe, low-maintenance contraception choice. The dialogues aimed to empower participants to make informed decisions about their health, promote gender equality, and inspire broader participation in family planning across the communities.
Global Celebration of Vasectomy: 24-Hour Men’s Celebration Live Streamed from Lusaka Zambia
The 24-Hour Men’s Celebration on November 22, 2024, celebrated vasectomy and positive masculinity in a global live stream hosted by Zambia. Featuring expert panels, powerful testimonials, and inspiring discussions on family planning, the event raised awareness about vasectomy while celebrating WVD’s efforts in promoting reproductive health worldwide.The 24 hour event was closed with an outstanding poetry slam with the theme ”Celebrating Responsible Men”.
WVD Zambia’s Aerobics Session and Health Fair Promotes Wellness
On November 23, 2024, WVD in Zambia hosted the aerobics session and health fair at East Park Mall Piaza in Lusaka. The event encouraged men and families to engage in fitness and healthy living, featuring interactive workouts, free health screenings, and wellness tips from medical professionals and local fitness brands.