ACTION 4 CHOICE Project
The Action for Choice (A4C) Project, implemented with support from the Embassy of Sweden in Zimbabwe, aimed to improve young people’s participation in SRH (Sexual and Reproductive Health) and GBV (Gender-Based Violence) advocacy and strengthen their access and utilization of responsive services and targeted youth aged 10–24 years.
Phase I (2018–2021): A4C focused on promoting peer-to-peer digital and virtual information sharing equipping youth with knowledge and advocacy skills to influence SRH-GBV policies. During this phase, A4C strengthened the SAYWHAT Resource Centre approach (adding 6 more to 8 that already existed), as well as strengthening the Web for life Network for girls and young women and the Mugota/Ixhiba Young Men’s Forum in institutions of Higher Learning.
Phase II (2021–2024): A4C focused on enhancing digital engagement, evidence-based advocacy, service utilization and partner accountability. During this phase, we launched the Smart Learners Hub (a free online SRH course), established the SAYWHAT Studio of Choice for SRH-GBV artistic content (talk shows, podcasts, national quiz and debate challenges) that went on to reach over 1,000,000 young people/ annum. In addition, A4C supported the SAYWHAT Young Researchers Initiative Programme that continues to mentor students to conduct structured research on the challenges of their time culminating in SRH-GBV research publications.
The SAYWHAT 24hour toll-free (577) Call Centre for SRH-GBV information, referrals and psychosocial support was also established with over 39,000 young people accessing SRH-GBV services through referral pathways by 2024.
Despite emerging challenges, such as drug and substance abuse, climate-related risks, A4C resulted in significant participation by students and youth in advocacy, research and creative initiatives leaving young people who are aware of the urgent need for continued youth engagement and policy influence.
