A Broken Bridge: Connecting Uganda's Adolescents to Sexual and Reproductive Health Services

Abstract

This publication explores the gaps between policy commitments and actual access to sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services for adolescents in Uganda, highlighting how barriers such as poverty, stigma, harmful social norms, limited comprehensive sexuality education, and weak health systems prevent young people from accessing the information and services they need. It notes that adolescents, especially those in refugee and vulnerable settings, face heightened risks of teenage pregnancy, sexual violence, and exploitation due to structural inequalities and service delivery challenges. The article emphasizes that despite supportive national policies, implementation remains weak, creating a broken bridge between adolescents and essential SRH services. It further highlights promising approaches such as youth-friendly services, peer education, and community engagement to improve access and uptake.