SRHR Youth Power Hackathon in Zimbabwe empowers young leaders to drive solutions
5 March 2026, Harare, Zimbabwe
On 5 March 2026, our Consortium Partner, Restless Development convened the SRHR Youth Power Hackathon in Harare, Zimbabwe, bringing together 36 youth representatives, youth-led organisations, and key stakeholders in the Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) sector. The event created a dynamic platform for collaboration, innovation, and youth-led dialogue under the AU–EU Youth Voices Lab programme.
The hackathon was led by Youth Accountability Champion Zvikomborero Nyamugure and engaged young people aged 15–35 in analysing findings from youth-led continental research conducted across 14 African countries. Participants worked together to translate these insights into practical, community-driven solutions addressing pressing SRHR challenges.
Through structured sessions, participants identified critical barriers affecting access to SRHR services, including stigma, misinformation, and limited funding. The hackathon also facilitated meaningful engagement with key institutions such as Population Services Zimbabwe, the Zimbabwe National Family Planning Council, and SAfAIDS, strengthening collaboration between young people and organisations working to advance SRHR.
One of the key outcomes of the event was the development of a youth-informed solutions document, currently under review. This document is expected to guide future advocacy efforts, programming, and potential pilot initiatives. Participants also enhanced their skills in problem analysis, social innovation, and communication, equipping them to engage more effectively with policymakers and decision-makers.
Reflecting on the experience, Zvikomborero Nyamugure noted: “This hackathon really showed me that the issues we face as young people in Zimbabwe, like stigma, misinformation, and judgment when trying to access services, are real, but also solvable.”
The hackathon highlighted the value of youth-led approaches in addressing complex social challenges. By placing young people at the centre of solution-building processes, the initiative reinforced the importance of inclusive, participatory models that empower youth as leaders and changemakers in shaping policies that impact their lives.
