Impact

After being here for 3 years, I believe [Restless Development] Tanzania is a shining example to all of us. They have recognized the particular vulnerability of young people ...  All the volunteers and the vast majority of staff are young and energetic.  They understand the problems young people face and they know how to address the problem in such a way that they ... genuinely bring about behavioural change".

Eric Korsgren, Head of Development Cooperation, Embassy of Sweden

Through Kijana ni Afya, we targeted sexual and reproductive health awareness through 121 clubs, 150 events and 9,115 in-school (and 2,000 out-of-school) sessions. The community were involved through 162 health provider visits, 86 sports leagues, as well as workshops at which 720 teachers, community members and youth groups participated. A further 81 Community Action Groups and 73 Information Resource Centres were also established.

We also produced a Peer Advice Handbook detailing the setting up and running of peer advice systems for young people in rural communities.

Our efforts resulted in

• A greater awareness of sexual and reproductive health and rights among young people. This was evidenced by a marked reduction in teen pregnancies and STIs, while demand for condoms and HIV testing rose.
• Other positive indications including marked reductions in alcohol and drug abuse among young people, increased retention of students, and improved awareness and willingness of youth to advocate on gender equality. Importantly, we also observed an increase in young people starting small businesses and engaging in income generating activities.

On World AIDS Day in 2009, Restless Development (Tanzania) held a candlelight memorial to honour those who died of HIV and AIDS. This was led by poet and artist Mr. Mrisho Mpoto, with 200 young people and the former TACAIDS Youth commissioner Mr Taji Liundi. Tanzanian celebrities attended to champion HIV/AIDS messaging and the Ministry of Health donated 500 informational booklets for distribution. Voluntary counselling and testing and free condoms were provided by Marie Stopes. One of the most memorable moments came with a remarkable testimony from a female student who described having lived positively with HIV over 9 years.