As we mark the 2021 International Girl Child Day, the IPPF Africa Regional Sub-Office to the African Union and the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (IPPF AUSO), in collaboration with the Gender is my Agenda Campaign (GIMAC) network launches a Policy Review : Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SHR) as an Essential Component to Achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC). The objective of the Policy review is to unpack the concept of UHC and how it relates to and why there is need to integrate sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) in it. This introspection looks at why countries should invest in UHC, building on the healthy livelihoods of all people as clearly outlined in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development as well as the African Union Agenda 2063.  

IPPF also takes this opportunity to also launch a Position paper on Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) developed by IPPF. This document articulates IPPF’s priorities in relation to Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) and aims to provide guidance for IPPF Member Associations (MAs) and the Federation at large. They were produced through a consultation process involving representatives from Member Associations (MAs) and IPPF’s Secretariat through workshop discussions, key informant interviews, and document reviews.