Research from the Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) sector reveals that over 1.8 million unsafe abortions are performed annually in West Africa. Restrictive laws, stigma, and a shortage of trained providers contribute to preventable complications and deaths.
Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV).
Alarmingly high levels of violence have been reported, with more than 11,000 cases recorded in just six months in one country. Women with disabilities and female sex workers face the highest risks.
Mental Health and Sexuality.
Only one study across the region has explored the critical intersection of mental health and sexuality. Poor mental health significantly influences sexual behaviors, vulnerability to abuse, and overall SRH outcomes.
Harmful Traditional Practices.
Conditions such as female genital schistosomiasis and female genital mutilation (FGM) remain underestimated in SRH programs, despite widespread evidence of their long-term impacts.
SRH in Marginalized Communities & Intersectionality.
Populations such as people with disabilities, street hawkers, rural women, and ethnic minorities encounter multiple layers of discrimination and unequal access to SRH care.
New Regional Review Reveals Critical Gaps.
A new comprehensive review of SRHR research in West and Central Africa (WCA) highlights seven major areas of persistent neglect. Conducted by the African Health Economics and Policy Association (AfHEA) in June 2025, the review examined 94 studies from WCA countries, exposing structural gaps that endanger millions of women, girls, adolescents, and marginalized populations.
The review, led by public health researcher Dr. Esther Abikoye, is part of AfHEA’s initiative titled *Addressing Neglected Areas of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights in Sub-Saharan Africa* (ANeSA), with financial support from Global Affairs Canada, the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, and the International Development Research Centre. Dr. Abikoye stated, “Our findings show a pattern of systemic neglect in areas that directly affect the most vulnerable individuals. These gaps undermine progress toward gender equality, human rights, and universal health coverage.
Key Neglected SRHR Areas.
The report identifies several priority areas requiring urgent action infertility and Subfertility
Infertility rates in WCA are double the global average, yet the issue is largely absent from national health agendas. Many women rely on traditional methods due to scarce and costly biomedical services.-
Adolescent Sexual and Reproductive Health.
Adolescents, particularly those with disabilities, street-involved youth, and displaced young people, face significant barriers in accessing accurate information and essential services.
Geographic Imbalances and Research Gaps.
The review found that only 13 countries in West and Central Africa had sufficient SRHR research, creating a significant evidence gap across nearly half the region. Dr. Abikoye explained, “This imbalance undermines the ability of governments and development partners to design interventions that are context-specific and inclusive.
Call to Action.
The SRHR Review Report calls for immediate coordinated action from governments, development partners, health institutions, and civil society organizations. One of the primary recommendations is to strengthen national SRHR policies to effectively address issues such as infertility and subfertility, adolescent health, sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV), and safe abortion access.
This strategic enhancement is crucial for ensuring that the needs of vulnerable populations are prioritized.Additionally, there is a pressing need to expand SRHR education and awareness programs specifically tailored to vulnerable groups.
By improving education, stakeholders can empower individuals with accurate information and resources, reducing stigma and fostering informed decision-making.Investment in mental health services within the SRHR framework is also essential.
Mental health plays a critical role in overall well-being, and integrating these services can significantly improve sexual and reproductive health outcomes.Furthermore, promoting disability-inclusive and youth-friendly services can create supportive environments that cater to the unique needs of marginalized populations. This inclusion is vital for ensuring equitable access to SRH care.
However, the report emphasizes the importance of conducting more research in countries with limited or no existing SRHR evidence. This research can guide effective policy reform, ensuring that interventions are context-specific and evidence-based.
Additionally, strict enforcement of existing laws related to FGM, SGBV, and other harmful practices is imperative to protect vulnerable individuals and uphold their rights.“This review provides clear evidence and a roadmap for action. Governments must demonstrate political will and commit to addressing the neglected areas of sexual and reproductive health. The well-being of millions of women and girls depends on it,” Dr. Abikoye emphasized.
The SRHR Review Report (June 2025) is a comprehensive scoping review that maps neglected SRHR areas and marginalized populations across West and Central Africa. It aims to support policymakers, health professionals, and development partners in designing inclusive, evidence-based interventions.
Source: mywordfmonline.com/Gaspard Adongo Ayuureneeya.