10 Jul 2023

YouthWyze has developed an inclusive and participatory digital community led monitoring module to empower and bring services closer to young persons.

Delivering a keynote address at the launch of the YouthWyze digital health App recently, deputy permanent secretary in the Ministry of Health, Mr Moses Keetile said the YouthWyze aimed to promote accountability and bridge the gap between health service providers and the youth.

Mr Keetile, who is responsible for Health Policy Research said it was evident that adolescents and young people had limited access to sexual and reproductive health and rights services hence the high rates of unplanned pregnancies.

“I am advised that YouthWyze seeks to bridge the gap between traditional healthcare services and the digital world, by harnessing the power of technology to deliver essential information, guidance and support to young people right at their fingertips and empowering young individuals to take charge of their sexual and reproductive health,” said Mr Keetile.

He further commended SRHR Africa Trust (SAT) for their initiative, especially that modern contraceptives among adolescent girls and young women remained a challenge for Botswana and other Sub-Saharan African countries.

For his part, SAT Botswana Country director and YouthWyze Digital Health Lead, Mr Thatayaone Gabositwe explained that YouthWyze interfaced with young people via multiple channels, including but not limited to WhatsApp, SMS and Facebook. “The App has active users on Facebook of about 34 000 and it is very effective such that more young people are getting health services than before,” said Mr Gabositwe.

Furthermore, Mr Gabositwe stated that through the platform young people engaged with experts who provided health tips and other features which include directing young people to the nearby health facility, mental health support and peer to peer engagement.

The App is available in 13 African countries and is accessible online on Google Play store, Apple Play store and YouthWyze Facebook page as well as through WhatsApp +27 714485811. ENDS