Multi-sectorial dimensions of sexual and reproductive health: Implications for policies and programmes in Africa

Abstract

With the increasing preeminence of sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) within political spaces in Africa, it is important to address the question as to the best method to field its related policies and programs in the continent. To date, and in our experience there has been a tendency for governments to handle programs related to SRHR in the health sub-sector of national economies. However, we posit that SRHR transcends the health domain, and to achieve more effectiveness and convergence in its implementation, it would be more reinforcing to domesticate its management in other sectors as well.

The World Health Organization defines sexual and reproductive health  as “a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence or disease or infirmity in all matters relating to the reproductive system and to its functions and processes”^1,2.  This definition recognizes that reproductive health is not merely the absence of disease, but also includes considerations for the mental and social well-being of individuals.  By emphasizing the social domain in the definition, it signifies that it is important and crucial to address the social, economic, and cultural spheres other than health.

Interestingly, this consideration has not been fully and systematically contemplated in SRHR programming in many parts of Africa. SRHR as defined by the Programme  of Action (PoA) at the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD)³ also includes considerations for human rights, equity, equality of persons, and social justice, which are domains better implemented by all sub-sectors rather than health alone.