Namibia: Dream Decide Lead

Namibia faces an ongoing teenage pregnancy crisis, with the Ohangwena Region recording the highest rates in the country. Thousands of girls under 19 have become pregnant between 2020 and 2024. Contributing factors include limited contraceptive access, poor SRHR knowledge, stigma, and restricted youth participation in decision‑making.

To address these issues, the WOSSO‑led initiative “Empowering Youth for Improved Contraceptive Access in Namibia” targeted adolescents aged 10–19 in rural and underserved areas. The project placed young people at the forefront of advocacy, transforming them into educators and leaders capable of driving behaviour change. Junior Mayors and Junior Councillors received training in SRHR, leadership, communication and peer‑education.

Peer‑to‑peer education sessions, youth dialogues, school engagements and community conversations challenged silence and stigma around teenage pregnancy and contraceptive use. The shift from adult‑led instruction to youth‑led advocacy created safe spaces for honest discussions. Young leaders also engaged parents, community leaders and health workers to influence cultural barriers and strengthen links to health facilities.

A major turning point came through the introduction of a digital referral app. Before the project, many young people did not know where to seek help, lacked reliable information, or feared judgement at health facilities. With the app, adolescents gained direct access to youth‑friendly SRHR information and referral pathways.

Knowledge gaps were replaced with confidence. Young people began planning their futures, understanding their contraceptive choices, and accessing youth‑friendly services without fear. The app became a bridge connecting young people to real support.

Service providers also benefited, as the app improved coordination, strengthened referral systems and increased youth uptake of services.

These changes demonstrate a powerful shift: teenage pregnancy is no longer viewed as an individual problem, but a shared community concern that young people are actively helping to solve. The project strengthened youth leadership, built trust between communities and health systems, and aligned youth action with national public health priorities.

The initiative has laid a foundation for scaling. Its youth‑centred model can be replicated in other high‑burden regions. Junior Councillors and youth leaders will mentor incoming cohorts. Partnerships with local authorities and the Ministry of Health will sustain and expand service access. Digital platforms will further increase reach at low cost.

Through peer leadership, digital innovation, and community engagement, young people are reclaiming agency over their futures. The project shows that when youth lead, communities listen—and change begins.

Quotes

Junior Councillor Being part of this programme has given me the confidence to speak to my peers about choices and their future.

Teenage girl in Ohangwena Before, I did not know much about contraception or my options. Now I understand how to protect myself and feel hopeful for my future.

Peer participant Seeing my friends lead encouraged me to ask questions and make smart choices. I know I can achieve my dreams.