A Partnership for Progress: Transforming the Lives of Young Nigerians by providing life-saving information for a healthy, productive, and fulfilling future
UNFPA Nigeria and Reach Digital Health are pleased to announce a collaborative partnership to redesign and improve the U-Plan Initiative, a powerful tool that will expand access to healthcare for young people living in Nigeria, with a particular focus on Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) and Gender-based Violence (GBV).
The U-Plan initiative will leverage the combined strengths of UNFPA Nigeria and Reach Digital Health to break down barriers and expand access to vital health services. It will contribute to a future where young Nigerians can confidently seek information, support and referral services related to sexual and reproductive health, family planning, and HIV prevention, through the convenience of their mobile phones.
By leveraging the potential and possibilities of mobile technology, the U-Plan Initiative will revolutionise how health information and services are delivered by broadening access to health information; placing the needs and aspirations of young people at the forefront and ensuring that no young person is left behind. The vision is to build a Nigeria where young people have the power to shape their futures, access vital health services and strengthen their wellbeing.
Building on the initiative’s remarkable success in South Africa, both organisations envision adapting and implementing the youth-centred Young Africa Live (YAL) framework within Nigeria — a collaboration that holds immense promise for empowering young Nigerians and improving their health and social well-being.
“We recognise that the challenges facing young people in Nigeria are unique, so the partnership is about listening to young people, understanding their needs, and working hand-in-hand to create impactful solutions that can change lives. Together with Reach Digital Health, we’re committed to empowering the next generation of Nigerians to build a brighter, healthier future,” UNFPA Nigeria Resident Representative Dr. Gifty Addico said.
“Our collaboration with UNFPA is not just about building a platform, but a safe haven — a space where young Nigerians can access vital information about contraception, HIV/AIDS, gender-based violence, break the silence, and find the support they need to make informed choices and lead a healthy, happy life,” said Debbie Rogers, Reach Digital Health CEO.
Together, UNFPA and Reach Digital Health are creating a service that empowers young people to be in control of their health, their futures, and their lives — marking a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s journey towards a more empowered future for its youth, where digital innovation catalyses transformative change.
About U-Plan
U-Plan is the UNFPA Nigeria FP (Family Planning) WhatsApp Chatbot deployed in January 2023 to reach adolescents, young people, persons with disability (PWD) and all women of reproductive age with accurate information on contraception that is confidential and establish linkages with the public service delivery points for the uptake of FP services. U-Plan has reached over 1500 users in its beta testing phase and will be better positioned by this partnership to provide a wider range of services reaching national coverage.
About Young Africa Live
Young Africa Live is a responsive platform that adapts to the ever-evolving needs of young people. It utilises popular social media platforms like WhatsApp and Facebook to deliver personalised information, guidance, and support. Users can seamlessly switch between confidential one-on-one conversations with the SmartBot on WhatsApp and open discussions with their peers on Facebook, all within a safe and accessible environment. This innovative approach ensures that young people have the tools and resources they need to navigate life’s challenges and make informed decisions about their health and well-being.
About UNFPA
UNFPA is the United Nations Sexual and Reproductive Health agency delivering a world where every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe and every young person’s potential is fulfilled.
About Reach Digital Health
Reach Digital Health leverages the power of digital tools to connect people, particularly those in marginalised communities, with essential public health services. By integrating personalised communication tools into government healthcare programs, Reach ensures that vital information and support reach those who need it most. From maternal and child health to HIV/AIDS support and immunisation reminders, Reach is committed to addressing health disparities and empowering communities to take control of their well-being. Their work has proven invaluable, especially during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic, demonstrating the critical role of digital health in reaching the underserved and saving lives.
