Zambia’s Ministry of Health is reviewing the Minimum Package and Standards for Adolescent Health services, with support from the AUDA-NEPAD and the WISH 2 program. This review process has entered its first phase, led by the Ministry and involving key stakeholders at the national, provincial, and district levels. Participants include members of Adolescent Health Technical Working Groups, Civil Society Organizations, the Zambia Agency for Persons with Disabilities (ZAPD), various line ministries, and implementing partners like UNICEF and UNFPA.
The review acknowledges the unique health needs of adolescents, who undergo rapid physical, cognitive, and psychosocial growth. This development influences how they feel, think, and interact with their environment. To ensure healthy development, adolescents require age-appropriate information—including comprehensive sexuality education—opportunities to build life skills, equitable and effective health services, and safe, supportive environments.
Following the initial review, a validation meeting will be held. This meeting will include adolescents, young people, and other stakeholders to ensure the finalized guidelines are comprehensive, practical, and directly aligned with adolescent needs. The overall goal is to approve and disseminate an updated document that improves health outcomes for adolescents across the country.
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