The African Regional Convening Toward Women Deliver 2026, convened in Nairobi from November 24 to 26, 2025, provided a critical platform for uniting women led organisations and groups dedicated to advancing women’s rights, gender equality, and social justice—alongside youth networks, grassroots movements, civil society leaders, and advocates across Africa in a collective effort to strengthen progress on sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) and gender equality. Throughout the convening, voices of marginalized groups—including women, persons with disabilities, adolescent girls, young people, and those in rural or crisis-affected areas—were amplified.

LVCT Health played a central role in these conversations, showcasing its leadership in advancing SRHR and mental health for vulnerable populations. On the first day, our team shared insights during a panel discussion on Mental Health in Relation to SRHR for Adolescent Girls and Young Women with Disabilities, highlighting key innovations such as:

• One2One Integrated Digital Platform – providing confidential counseling and SRHR information to young people across Kenya.
• MindSkills Program – leveraging sports to promote mental health awareness and resilience among adolescents and youth.
• Workplace Wellness Services – ensuring holistic health support for workers, reinforcing our commitment to mental well-being.

On the final day, during the dialogue “From Global Power Platforms to Local Realities,” LVCT Health convened a panel of advocates with disabilities who shared their lived experiences and perspectives on SRHR. Jemima Apisi emphasized that for deaf women, access to accurate SRHR information is critical, alongside inclusive policies and active participation of persons with disabilities from family to national levels. As a peer educator, she plays a key role in sharing this information within her community.

Caterina Nyambura, highlighted systemic barriers in accessing reproductive health services, noting that healthcare providers themselves often pose the greatest challenge to people of short stature. She called for deliberate budget allocations to train health workers on disability inclusion, citing tragic cases where lack of knowledge or fear among doctors has led to preventable deaths.

MaryClare, who became blind at nine, spoke about the transformative support from her family and stressed the importance of working with families to ensure persons with disabilities access opportunities. Through creative approaches like dance and acting, she advocates for SRHR and fights stigma in her community.

“LVCT Health’s approach remains inclusive, evidence-driven, and community-centered—ensuring that no one is left behind in the journey toward health equity.” Stella Gitia- Senior Technical Advisor -Mental Health