Adolescent Voices Matter: The Inspiring Journey of Brian Kumakech, a 15-Year-Old Reproductive Health Champion

In a powerful demonstration of youth advocacy, Brian Kumakech, a 15-year-old from Madi-Okollo District in Uganda’s West Nile region, recently made a significant impact at the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) in Kigali, Rwanda. Representing the voice of his peers, Brian challenged legislators on the East African Community Sexual and Reproductive Health Bill, 2021 (EAC SRH Bill, 2021), which aims to enhance sexual and reproductive health rights across East Africa.

The EAC SRH Bill, 2021, is a critical component of the East African Community’s effort to implement its Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights Strategic Plan 2015-2030. The recent transition to the 5th Parliament and the induction of new members to the Committee on General Purpose necessitated an orientation to fully grasp the bill’s objectives.

The meeting in Kigali was designed to raise awareness about the bill among new committee members and regional stakeholders, garner support and endorsement for the bill, establish consensus among diverse stakeholders, and identify EALA and regional champions to advocate for the bill ahead of its second reading.

The Center for Reproductive Rights, under the SHE SOARS project and in collaboration with its partners, aimed to enrich the proceedings by inviting adolescent boys and girls to share their personal experiences regarding sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR).

Women and Rural Development Network (WORUDET), in close cooperation with the Naguru Teenage Information and Health Centre (NTIHC) and the Youth Focal Person for Madi-Okollo District, successfully identified and accompanied Brian to Kigali, Rwanda, for the meeting. His first flight was an emotional experience, filled with both anxiety and excitement. Upon arrival, Brian joined other adolescents from Rwanda and Tanzania to share their experiences at the EALA meeting.

“How does a meeting like this help an adolescent boy like me and my other peers in Madi-Okollo?”

Brian Kumakech addressing EALA members

Against All Odds

Brian’s journey to becoming a SRHR champion began in challenging circumstances. From the subcounty of Pawor in Madi-Okollo district, Brian had his education interrupted by the COVID-19 lockdown. His father, a traditional fisherman, required Brian’s help in fishing, putting his education on hold. However, Brian’s determination to return to school was reignited through the support of the NTIHC. With its intervention, Brian re-enrolled in Pawor Primary School and is currently studying in primary six.

During the EALA meeting in Kigali, Brian delivered a compelling submission calling for:

• Establishing multiple access points for SRHR information, especially in rural areas;
• Decriminalizing consensual sexual activity among adolescents; and
• Ensuring proactive outreach by health centers to adolescents.

Brian highlighted that SRHR interventions often focus on girls, leaving boys underserved. His poignant question to the assembly, “How does a meeting like this help an adolescent boy like me and my other peers in Madi-Okollo?” resonated deeply with the legislators.

Brian’s participation at the meeting significantly boosted his confidence and understanding of SRHR issues. His interactions with peers from other countries broadened his perspective, enhancing his ability to advocate effectively.

WORUDET, in collaboration with NTIHC, will continue to support Brian’s education and mentorship, preparing him to become a national SRHR champion. Brian was encouraged to share his story widely, especially during school holidays, to inspire other adolescents to speak out on SRHR issues.

The EALA meeting in Kigali provided a crucial platform for adolescent voices. Brian and his peers delivered impactful submissions, prompting a call to action from legislators. Designated as SRHR champions, these adolescents experienced life-long changes and set the stage for positive impacts on legislation.

Brian’s journey from a fishing village to advocating at an international forum underscores the importance of including young voices in SRHR conversations—and illustrates the potential for young people to influence policy that will affect their lives each day.