South Sudan has the world’s worst SRH indicators- 789 deaths per 100,000 live births; it has one of the highest maternal mortality ratios (MMR) in the world; with the contraceptive prevalence rate (CPR) of 4.7%, with only 1.7% of women using modern family planning methods. Young people’s comprehensive knowledge about SRHR is extremely low [https://en.unesco.org/news/sexuality-education-youth-south-sudan-strengthened]. Adolescent girls, especially those from rural and pastoral settings face diverse SRH challenges. Menstruation is surrounded by divergent religious beliefs and cultural perceptions that impact negatively on menstrual health management (MHM) practices. There is inadequate information and guidance on menses. There is lack of robust policy and strategy by local governments on MHM.

Response Plan: Inclusive SRHR Movement

Our response will focus on adolescent sexual and reproductive health (ASRH) as a driving force for the SRHR movement building. A strong and winning ASRH movement, including movements for marginalized and sexually orientated minority groups in South Sudan is needed. It requires building an ecosystem of groups that are strong and healthy — groups that are on the ground for the long tussle. We believe in creating smaller ASRH and/or SRHR “working groups or networks” based on expertise, with a well-defined mission and purpose that will propel the SRHR movement. These shall be community-based ASRH and/or SRHR support groups/networks for tracking, referral and reporting. These groups will keep individuals plunged into the ASRH and/or SRHR movement. Women & youth-led CBOs, including individuals will be the main targets. There will be a well- defined group leadership structure for feedback, dispute resolution and strategic direction. Civic engagement of SRHR stake holders for synergy and collaboration through dialogues, round table meetings etc. are significant. The online social media platforms- Facebook, WhatsApp, Google group etc. will also be used to build the SRHR momentum. The “public space” approach, where SRHR advocates grab existing opportunities- public events or spaces- will also be adopted. There shall be media campaigns on SRHR and production of IEC materials. CSOs will be trained on mainstreaming SRHR into their programs. We shall reconstitute the MHM coalition to review its strategy, aimed at setting-up inclusive SRHR coalition. The SRHR coalition will adopt the “thematic SRHR working group” system for advocacy, based on expertise. There shall be terms of reference for the SRHR working groups to roll-out the SRHR movement strategy.