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Health service providers have been asked to use social media platforms to share sexual and reproductive health to easily communicate with adolescents and young adults.
Experts have noted that young people relate more to social media as compared to mainstream media. The changes in viewer attitudes, according to, the experts, calls for stakeholders to rethink the way sexual health dissemination is conducted.
Boemo Sekgoma, Secretary General Southern African Development Community (SADAC) Parliamentary Portfolio said Facebook, snippets and Instagram are examples of social media platforms that can be of help in disseminating information to young people.
"It has been noted that viewers are more inclined to watch news snippets (TikTok) on social media than through television broadcast," said Sekgoma.
He made the remarks during an ongoing SRHR regional summit, in Johannesburg, South Africa.
Social media, he added, can also enhance responses from young adults on services they need.
Unlike mainstream media, social media has an instant response, and reaction, which she said can be a tool in improving sexual health services.
"The media can be a powerful tool, and stakeholders involved in SRHR reform need to reflect on how best to use mediatic tools to engage citizens," said Sekgoma.
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Richard Delate, Programme Specialist Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights, UNFPA East and Southern Africa region, added that states should set up child-friendly centres to serve young adults.
"Young people feel uncomfortable going to the same clinics with their mothers, aunties, and everyone else," said Delate.
Helana Vikstrom, Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA) regional representative said SRHR is are fundamental to health and well-being, gender equality, democracy, peace and security, and sustainable development.
The summit has brought together more than 150 delegates from 18 countries in East and Southern Africa to discuss ways of creating dialogue around SRHR.
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