Sexual and Reproductive Health
HDI works hand-in-hand with those most in need to increase access to SRHR information and care. We empower and mobilize adolescents and young people with comprehensive sexuality education so that they can know and claim their rights. We also support women and girls in navigating access to information and services on family planning and safe abortion. We provide rights-based HIV services and education, and we work to transform the mindsets of current and future health professionals by equipping them with skills and knowledge to provide comprehensive, respectful and rights-based care.
Center for Health and Rights
At the heart of HDI’s work on SRHR is its Centers for Health and Rights in Kicukiro and Nyakabanda. The Centers for Health and Rights are stigma-free and SRHR-friendly service models that HDI established to reach the most vulnerable populations in Rwanda with accurate and free information and services.
Our Kicukiro clinic is a general clinic for those seeking SRHR services and information. Our Nyakabanda clinic is specialized in serving key populations (e.g. LGBTIQ+ individuals, people living with HIV, sex workers, and people who use drugs). The staff at our clinics are trained to provide stigma-free services and are welcoming of marginalized groups.
Adolescent Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights
Our adolescent programming actively supports youth in a variety of ways. Through this programming, we have generated valuable data about adolescent SRHR challenges since 2008. We use this data and our platform as a trusted community organization to:
- Leverage access to information through educational school visits, our hotline, and mainstream and social media platforms.
- Build Networks by partnering with schools, youth organizations, community centers, and offering workshops.
- Encourage Advocacy and Action by empowering adolescent champions to become advocates for SRHR within their communities.
Access to Safe Abortion
HDI sensitizes healthcare providers on the legal framework on abortion. Many healthcare providers lack information on the laws around safe abortion and hold conservative religious views on abortion, thus inadvertently (and sometimes intentionally) interfering with women’s legal right to abortion.
HDI supports individuals seeking safe abortion with:
- Free, safe pre- and post- abortion counseling
- Legal and medical counseling and care for vulnerable women and girls
- Referrals, linkage and orientation to health facilities for care and treatment
- Legal aid around safe abortion services
Since 2018, HDI has supported over 3,000 women and girls to exercise their right to safe abortion.
Family Planning and Fertility Awareness
HDI implements fertility awareness methods (FAM) – a strategy that couples can use to prevent pregnancy which involves tracking a woman’s fertility and menstrual cycle. In partnership with USAID, HDI expands the use of self-administered family planning methods and engages local FBOs in enhancing access.
HIV Prevention and Treatment
Every year, HDI leads numerous outreach campaigns to promote HIV testing and adherence to ARV schedules. Since 2007, HDI has tested over 75,000 beneficiaries for HIV/AIDS. We offer screening, Education, Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis [PrEP], and psycho-social support.
Gender Equality
HDI pursues activities related to the fight for gender equality, positive masculinity, and efforts to mainstream gender in all areas of life. We conduct campaigns and sensitization meetings which mobilize young men and women, faith leaders, and the media to promote gender justice.