VUMA is a transformative 7-year initiative led by Plan International, dedicated to empowering adolescent girls, young women (AGYW), and adolescent boys aged 10-24 in the Katavi Region. The project tackles gender inequalities that limit access to Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) services, addressing economic dependencies that increase vulnerabilities. Through a multi-sectoral and feminist approach, VUMA aims to equip AGYWs and young boys with the knowledge, resources, and opportunities to exercise their sexual, reproductive, economic, and protection rights.
To support this mission, DAMAX Solutions conducted a gender-responsive and inclusive baseline study to assess the current adolescent sexual and reproductive health landscape in Katavi. This study serves as a benchmark for tracking the project's progress and effectiveness over time.
Using structured interviews programmed in Open Data Kit (ODK), DAMAX engaged 3,000 adolescent girls, young women, and boys across all districts of Katavi. Additionally, 25 key informant interviews (KIIs) were conducted with community members, traditional and religious leaders, social workers, teachers, healthcare providers, and government officials at regional and district levels. To deepen insights, six focus group discussions with boys and girls explored critical topics such as girls' empowerment, teen pregnancies, early marriage, civic participation, and the utilization of SRH services.
This study provides valuable insights that will shape the VUMA project's impact, ensuring that interventions are data-driven, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of Katavi's youth.