Background:
Globally, over 180 million adolescents and young people live with disabilities, yet their sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) are often overlooked. In Ethiopia, AYPWDs face multiple barriers—stigma, inaccessible services, lack of tailored health communication, and discriminatory attitudes among healthcare workers. Nationally, only 1.9% of the population is officially recorded as living with a disability, but estimates suggest the real figure is much higher. AYPWDs are especially vulnerable to sexual abuse, social exclusion, and misinformation about their rights and bodies.

About the project:
This change project sought to make SRHR services at Chefe Health Centre more inclusive and disability-friendly. Key activities included SRHR awareness training for 42 AYPWDs (22 females, 20 males), staff training for 72 healthcare professionals (including midwives and nurses), and physical modifications to make the health centre more accessible. Training materials used sign language interpreters, simplified visuals, and participatory methods tailored to different types of disabilities. Stakeholder partnerships with the Ministry of Women and Social Affairs, disability associations, and youth centres ensured broad community involvement.

Results:
AYPWDs reported increased knowledge and confidence to access SRHR services, while trained health staff demonstrated improved sensitivity and communication skills. The Chefe Health Centre became more accessible, and the project strengthened multi-sector collaboration. This pilot offers a scalable model for inclusive SRHR service delivery, contributing directly to SDGs 3, 5, 10, and 17 by reducing inequalities and promoting health and gender equity