CHOICE: Empowering Young People in Contraception and Sexual Health

In Sierra Leone, the situation regarding contraception, teenage pregnancies, and reproductive health is challenging. According to recent data, the rate of teenage pregnancies remains high: around 21 % of girls aged 15–19 have already had a child or are pregnant, and many more begin family planning before the age of 20 (Data: UNFPA Sierra Leone Annual Report 2024: https://sierraleone.unfpa.org/en/topics/family-planning).

At the same time, relatively few women and girls use modern contraceptive methods, and a significant portion of the demand for family planning is unmet. These factors contribute to higher school dropout rates, increased health risks, and limited future opportunities for young women.

Against this backdrop, the Choice project was launched. It strengthens young people's self-determination in the areas of contraception and sexual and reproductive health (SRH).

The project is implemented in collaboration with the German Doctors and the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ).

Girls and boys at a school in Sierra Leone participating in the “Choice” project.

Training Programs with Significant Impact

As part of the project, two comprehensive training programs were carried out:

Youth Education

Young people were informed about their rights and responsibilities. The training covered key topics including gender roles, female genital mutilation (FGM), sexual and gender-based violence, teenage pregnancies, family planning, menstruation, and human rights.

Training for Parents, Teachers, and Religious Leaders

The goal was to equip key trusted adults in the community with the knowledge needed to support young people in making informed decisions regarding sexual and reproductive health.

Sowei women – the practitioners of female genital mutilation (FGM) who have decided to abandon the practice and are participating in the project, which also supports them in finding new sources of income.

Sustainable Changes

Over a period of two years and eight months, the project achieved significant positive outcomes:

• Reduction in teenage pregnancies and school dropouts, confirmed by school principals

• Improved academic performance: Over 60 % of students at the Benevolent Islamic Secondary School qualified for university admission

• Increased self-confidence among young people: Peer Advocates lead meetings and facilitate community discussions

• More open dialogue between parents and children on sensitive topics

• Growing societal acceptance of knowledge on sexual and reproductive health, supported by local authorities

Voice from the Community

“In my community, many girls under 18 get pregnant and leave school. This is dangerous and affects their future. Through the Choice project, we talk in a safe space about family planning and other important topics. It has changed our lives.”— Isatu S. Tarawally, Peer Advocate, Benevolent Islamic Secondary School

Conclusion

The Choice project is a transformative initiative that has not only achieved but surpassed its goals. By actively involving young people, community leaders, and other key stakeholders, the project has sustainably strengthened education and services in sexual and reproductive health, positively impacting the future of youth in Sierra Leone.

We sincerely thank Commit and Act Sierra Leone, the BMZ, and the German Doctors for funding and supporting this life-changing project.