ASSESSMENT OF THE IMPACT OF EMPOWERING YOUTH FOR HEALTHY CHOICES ON YOUTH REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH AND HIV/AIDS PREVENTION IN ISHAKA DIVISION, WESTERN UGANDA

Abstract

Youth reproductive health and HIV/AIDS prevention are critical public health concerns worldwide. Adolescents and young adults face unique challenges and risks regarding their sexual and reproductive health, including exposure to sexually transmitted infections like HIV/AIDS, unintended pregnancies, and limited access to reproductive health services. In regions such as Ishaka division in Western Uganda, these challenges are compounded by socio-cultural, economic, and educational barriers. This study investigated the effectiveness of youth reproductive health and HIV/AIDS prevention programs in Ishaka division in Western Uganda. The study was guided by two objectives; to determine the extent to which Empowering Youth for Healthy Choices has improved knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to reproductive health and HIV/AIDS prevention among youth in Ishaka division, Western Uganda and to assess the impact of Empowering Youth for Healthy Choices on reducing the incidence of teen pregnancies, sexually transmitted infections and HIV among youth in Ishaka division, Western Uganda. The study used both secondary and primary data collection methods; the study aimed at assessing the impact of existing programs on the target population. The study used a mixed-method approach. The study site was Ishaka division. The study targeted the youth aged between 18-24 years. A sample size of 300 youth was selected through stratified random sampling. Data collection involved structured surveys, focus group discussions and in-depth interviews. The collected data was analyzed using statistical techniques and thematic analysis. The findings from this study will provide insights into the effectiveness of existing programs and offer recommendations for enhancing youth reproductive health and HIV/AIDS prevention efforts in the region. The study concluded that Empowering Youth for Healthy Choices has a positive impact on youth reproductive health and HIV/AIDS prevention in Ishaka division, Western Uganda. The program's empowerment approach, focusing on knowledge, attitudes, and practices, is effective in promoting healthy choices among youth. Scaling up Empowering Youth for Healthy Choices and similar programs can contribute to reducing the burden of HIV/AIDS and improving reproductive health outcomes among youth in similar settings