Transformative Initiatives: Success Stories from Kenya and Namibia

The UN Joint SDG Fund programmes under the direction of UN Kenya and UN Namibia, in partnership with UN agencies and multilateral stakeholders in government, NGOs, and corporations, are spearheading transformative initiatives in Kenya and Namibia to address critical issues related to adolescent sexual and reproductive health (ASRH) and social protection. Here's a closer look at the innovative projects that aim to make a lasting impact on the lives of the people in these regions.

Kenya's Development Impact Bond for ASRH

In a monumental collaboration spearheaded by a consortium comprising UNFPA, UNAIDS, WHO, and the SDG Partnership Platform, alongside the UN Kenya Resident Coordinator, the Government of Kenya, global non-profit organization Triggerise, the Children's Investment Fund Foundation (CIFF), and Bridges Outcomes Partnerships, Kenya has witnessed the launch of a groundbreaking Development Impact Bond (DIB).

This innovative DIB is dedicated to addressing the crucial issue of adolescent sexual and reproductive health (ASRH) and is being implemented through Triggerise's pioneering Tiko platform. Leveraging the power of mobile technology, the Tiko platform serves as a digital gateway connecting adolescents with nearby public and private facilities that offer free ASRH services.

The Tiko ecosystem is a dynamic network comprising health clinics, pharmacies, virtual channels, community-based organizations, and dedicated health workers. It empowers youth to take charge of their health by providing them with access to comprehensive information and services related to sexual and reproductive health. Through this digital platform, Triggerise is revolutionizing the landscape of ASRH interventions, enabling real-time tracking of expenditures and continuous assessment of impact through data-driven insights and daily reports.

This groundbreaking initiative represents a significant step forward in advancing the health and well-being of adolescents in Kenya. By harnessing the potential of digital innovation and fostering multi-stakeholder partnerships, the DIB for ASRH holds the promise of creating lasting positive change in the lives of young people across the country.

Namibia's Social Protection Policy

Embarking on a trajectory of progress and inclusivity, UN Namibia has recently introduced the Namibia Social Protection Policy, building upon the successful foundation laid by the INFF Joint Programme. This policy represents a significant milestone in the nation's journey towards creating a comprehensive system that addresses risks and vulnerabilities throughout individuals' life cycles, guided by the principle of leaving no one behind.

At the heart of the Namibia Social Protection Policy are a series of key measures aimed at fortifying the existing social safety nets, enhancing inclusion for marginalized communities and individuals with disabilities, fostering employment opportunities, empowering women and youth, bolstering financial assistance for education, and improving access to affordable housing.

The successful implementation of the Social Protection Policy has positioned Namibia as a Pathfinder country, actively contributing to the UN Secretary-General's Initiative on the Global Accelerator on Jobs, Social Protection, and Just Transitions, in collaboration with the International Labour Organization (ILO). This designation underscores Namibia's commitment to advancing inclusive growth and social equity on a global scale.

Furthermore, Namibia has been identified as a target country for the UN Development Account project, spearheaded by UNDESA, UNECA, and UNESCAP. This transformative initiative aims to strengthen national capacities for establishing and implementing sustainable, evidence-based social protection systems. By accelerating socio-economic recovery amidst the Triple Crisis in Africa and Asia-Pacific, Namibia is poised to emerge as a beacon of resilience and progress in the region.

The introduction of the Namibia Social Protection Policy signals a new era of opportunity and empowerment for the nation's citizens, laying the groundwork for a more inclusive and prosperous future.

The UN's initiatives in Kenya and Namibia showcase the organization's commitment to addressing pressing issues and fostering positive change. Through collaborative efforts with governments, non-profit organizations, and innovative platforms, these projects aim to create a lasting impact on the health, well-being, and social protection of the people in these regions.

Note:

The Joint SDG Fund's joint programmes are under the prestige leadership of the Resident Coordinator Office and implementing United Nations Agencies. With sincere appreciation for the contributions from the European Union and Governments of Denmark, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Monaco, The Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Republic of Korea, Saudi Arabia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and our private sector funding partners, for a transformative movement towards achieving the SDGs by 2030.