UK MPs Conclude Pivotal Kenya Visit, Highlight Strides and Shortfalls in Sexual and Reproductive Health
A delegation of eight UK Parliamentarians has concluded a four-day study tour to Kenya, aimed at deepening their understanding of global sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR).
The mission, held from April 9 to 12, was organised by the UK All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Global SRHR in collaboration with UNFPA, MSI Reproductive Choices, and the International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF).
The visit offered a unique opportunity for the lawmakers to witness Kenya’s efforts in strengthening SRHR systems and services. The delegation engaged with key national stakeholders, including healthcare professionals, civil society organisations, youth advocates, and government officials, to explore local and international partnerships advancing access to family planning, reducing teenage pregnancies, and tackling gender-based violence, HIV, and Female Genital Mutilation (FGM).
During a high-level meeting with Health Cabinet Secretary Hon. Aden Duale, the MPs were briefed on Kenya’s strategic priorities such as improving maternal health outcomes, ensuring uninterrupted access to contraceptives, and scaling up youth-targeted HIV prevention initiatives.
The delegation visited health facilities in Nairobi and Homa Bay counties, observing first-hand the delivery of SRHR services supported by the UK government and development partners, including UNFPA and MSI. These field visits underscored the critical role of community-level health systems in reaching underserved populations.
“The work happening in Kenya is truly inspiring. It’s clear that investing in women and girls not only improves health outcomes but strengthens communities and economies,” said Ms. Leigh Ingham, Labour MP for Stafford, Eccleshall, and the villages, and delegation lead.
Discussions throughout the tour highlighted the importance of sustainable financing for SRHR, ongoing health sector reforms, and strengthened international collaboration to ensure no one is left behind.
The visiting MPs pledged to take the lessons learned to the UK Parliament, advocating for continued global support and funding for SRHR initiatives.
“The UK is proud to stand with Kenya and UNFPA in championing the rights and health of women and girls,” said Anders Thomsen, UNFPA Representative in Kenya.
“This visit reaffirms the power of partnerships in creating lasting impact in local communities.”
Founded in 1979, the UK APPG on Global Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights includes 80 members from both Houses of Parliament. The group advocates for universal access to SRHR, gender equality, and the eradication of violence and discrimination against women and girls, supporting the ICPD Programme of Action.
UNFPA is the United Nations sexual and reproductive health agency. In Kenya, UNFPA works with the government and partners to expand family planning access, improve maternal health, prevent gender-based violence, and uphold the rights of women, girls, and youth.
