Nairobi County MP, Hon. Esther Passaris on Thursday, June 13, 2024 hosted officials from the HIVOS Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights (SRHR) Fund to explore collaboration and partnership opportunities in support of youth-led and youth-focused organizations, networks and movements.

Hon. Passaris pointed out that sextortion is a major challenge for the individuals between the ages of 15 years and 24 years.

She also noted the high prevalence of teenage pregnancies and the risk of infection with Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) among young people.

To break the circle of poverty and curb teenage pregnancies, Hon. Passaris said it is important to sensitize the youth on the effects of irresponsible sexual behaviour.

Regarding Sexual Gender Based Violence (SGBV), she said plans to launch SGBV units across nine police stations in Nairobi and is currently putting up a safe house for the victims.

"The establishment of SGBV units and a safe house is crucial. We cannot ignore the women who have been defiled and raped," Hon. Passaris said.

She also called for psycho-social interventions and support for women in the post-productive age.

To achieve the required support, the Policy, Advocacy and Campaigns Lead at SRHR Fund, Ms. Kudzai Meda pledged financial support for the initiative.

"We want to see how we can support these champions with resources," said Ms. Meda.

Apart from Kenya, SRHR Fund also operates in Uganda, Malawi, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Zambia and South Africa.