A delegation of Swedish Embassy led by Mr. Johan Romare, Deputy Head of Mission and Head of Development Cooperation with the Embassy, today paid a visit to UNFPA supported programme interventions for persons with disabilities in the Sidama Region being implemented in partnership with the Ethiopian Center for Disability and Development (ECDD). 

The visit provided the chance to the delegation to observe the impact of inclusive and integrated programmes on sexual and reproductive health and rights as well as gender-based violence targeting persons with disabilities. The delegation learned firsthand the challenges young persons with disabilities face in accessing comprehensive sexual and reproductive health information and services stemming from a combination of barriers including physical, behavioral, communication, economic, and policy barriers.

During the visit to the ECDD Regional Coordination Office in Hawassa, the delegation was briefed about the work of ECDD on improving access to integrated sexual and reproductive health and rights and gender-based violence services for young persons with disabilities with the support of UNFPA. The programme interventions aim at empowering adolescents and youth, especially the most vulnerable, to make informed choices. 

One of the interventions, the Minch digital platform, is expanding access to information providing adolescents and young people with disabilities with access to tailored information on sexual and reproductive health and rights. It was also learned that efforts are underway to build the knowledge and skills of young persons with disabilities through youth-friendly platforms using braille, sign language and audio-visual materials.  It was noted that this is instrumental in empowering them to exercise their rights and make informed decisions about their SRH.

The delegation also got the chance to see the life skills and menstrual health management training provided to students at the Tabor Elementary School in Hawassa, including those with disabilities, implemented through the ECDD.  It was stated during the occasion that the training has empowered students to produce reusable sanitary pads promoting the dignity and self-esteem of economically disadvantaged girls, thereby reducing school absenteeism and creating opportunities for SRH and GBV awareness. 

The Hawassa Town Visually Impaired Association was also visited by the delegation and discussion was made with the members of the association. The members of the association appreciated the training on SRHR, the vocational skills training and the support on the health insurance premium they are receiving from ECDD through the support of UNFPA.