By Bongiwe Dube
Communities across Matabeleland South are taking steps forward by changing how they talk about sexual reproductive health rights (SRHR). For many years, this region has been guided by deep traditional beliefs and cultural norms that treated sex and reproductive health as a complete taboo which cannot be spoken about openly. In the past, elders and young people were never allowed to talk about these issues together until the youth were fully grown and ready for marriage.
Unfortunately, this silence created major health risks. Because young people lacked reliable health information, many young girls ended up trapped in unsafe sexual and reproductive health practices. Many were also forced to suffer sexual abuse in silence, simply because they did not know where to go for help or who to trust with their personal issues.
To change this, CYDT launched an intensive SRHR project. The organization started by carrying out community assessments to understand the exact struggles young people face, such as the severe lack of local clinics, contraceptives, and clean sanitary wear. These assessments showed that young people needed real support, not silence. Through constant engagement, the project has gradually turned things around, changing the attitudes of parents and traditional leaders for the better.
Today, the generational gap is closing. Parents are now stepping up and finding warm, supportive ways to communicate with their children. In Umzingwane, young people happily revealed that their parents have stopped treating SRHR as a taboo topic. Even though some parents still feel a bit shy, they are trying hard to give their children helpful life tips and guidance indirectly.
At the same time, influential local leaders are using their authority to build a safer environment for young people. Councillor Thulani Moyo of Gwanda Ward 9, for example, pledged to talk to other community leaders about SRHR and push for the building of better clinics and hospitals. Councillor Sitshengisiwe Ndlovu of Matobo Ward 7 also spoke out strongly, stating that it is the absolute duty of parents and leaders to talk openly with the younger generation. She also urged local nurses to visit villages regularly to educate youth and distribute free sanitary towels. Other local leaders, like Councillor Elijah Nkala of Umzingwane Ward 5, have also joined the movement.
This shift in leadership is incredibly powerful. By breaking the old silence, these community seniors are now openly speaking out against early child marriages and harmful cultural traditions that hurt young girls. Through continuous dialogue, parents and leaders are realizing that protecting the health and future of their children is a shared responsibility that cannot wait.