The recent initiative called ‘Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights, Get Informed and Act’ led by the Network of Journalists for Sexual and Reproductive Health (RJSSR), in partnership with the international organization MSI DRC, has opened up valuable perspectives on awareness raising and promotion of sexual and reproductive health rights. This event, held on November 16 at the University of Kinshasa, attracted the attention of students in Information and Communication Sciences, particularly highlighting the issue of safe abortion and its implications.
The discussions, enriching and informative, were conducted in collaboration with the Coulibaly SIDIKI Youth Center of the University of Kinshasa. The conference was structured around two key moments: the presentations of the speakers and the discussions with the public.
The speeches of the three speakers captivated the audience. Bibiche Mbete, a seasoned journalist specializing in communication on sexual and reproductive health rights, raised fundamental issues such as the definition and components of sexual and reproductive health, the needs and rights in this area, as well as the legal framework for abortion in the Democratic Republic of Congo. She stressed the importance of popularizing the laws so that the population can claim their rights with confidence.
Subsequently, Gaétan MUTOMBO, director of the Coulibaly Sidiki Youth Center, highlighted the major problems that young people face in terms of sexual and reproductive health, highlighting the causes of unwanted pregnancies among young people and the serious consequences of unsafe abortions. He also shared the awareness-raising actions carried out by his center within the university.
Finally, OBUL OKWESS Adelard, a lecturer at the University of Information and Communication Sciences (UNISIC), highlighted the crucial role of communication in promoting sexual and reproductive health rights, highlighting the link between abortion and maternal deaths in the DRC.
This meeting had a significant impact on the participating students, encouraging them to become aware of the importance of social and ethical responsibility in journalism. They were encouraged to actively participate in discussions and express their ideas to promote sexual and reproductive health rights through articles, blogs and open exchanges.
In summary, this campaign aimed to shed light on the debate on sexual and reproductive health rights among students of information and communication sciences, encouraging them to become agents of change in their society. This meeting was a step towards greater awareness and more committed action in favor of sexual and reproductive health for all.
Dorcas Ntumba/Fatshimetrie