In celebration of International Women’s Day, we interviewed three young women who have adopted digital platforms including social media to advocate for young people’s access to sexual reproductive health information and services including contraceptives.  

Meet Otara Rita Nyamoita, from FHOK Youth Centre in Nakuru county. She is calling for the creation of a safe digital space for women and girls to engage without fear of harassment 

What led you to use digitalization (social media) to advocate for sexual and reproductive health?  

I opted for digitalisation because the group of people I target most, the youth, use social media, and this enhances information dispersal. Social media also provides some form of confidentiality, which means people can share their experiences comfortably.

What has been your experience so far using digital spaces as a tool for advocacy/creating awareness?  

The experience has been amazing. I have been able to reach thousands of people with my posts. It’s also fulfilling knowing that the information I share has helped someone in one way or another. 

What lessons have you learnt while using technology (social media) to advocate for SRHR?  I have learnt to always do proper research before posting something or replying. 

I have learnt to always do proper research before posting something or replying. 

People have different experiences. 

I have to establish and maintain trust with my online community. 

Always remind my audience to visit healthcare professionals and trusted sites. because I am not a certified healthcare provider. 

There are a lot of myths surround SRHR and you have to deconstruct that with facts respectfully. 

How can the society make it better for girls and women to use technology/Digital spaces/Internet?