Amplifying lessons learnt from the implementation of the joint programme to strengthen integrated SRHR, and HIV and SGBV services: a case study in the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal provinces

In 2021, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) commissioned the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) to conduct a desktop review and synthesise data from sexual reproductive health (SRH) intervention projects implemented in three districts in South Africa. These districts were Alfred Nzo and OR Tambo in the Eastern Cape (intervention conducted by the Umthombo weMpilo Institute), and uThukela District in KwaZulu-Natal (intervention conducted by Optidel Global). The scope of work was undertaken by the HSRC from November 2021 to December 2021, and from April 2022 to July 2022. In total, the HSRC reviewed and synthesised 20 project reports compiled by the two service providers. The focus of the review was to document innovation and best practices in the implementation of the integrated sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR), HIV, tuberculosis (TB), and sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) in the selected health facilities. The UNFPA1 was founded in 1969 with a mission to ensure that every pregnancy is desired, every delivery is safe, and every young person's potential is realised. UNFPA provides reproductive health services to people in more than 150 countries, which translates to approximately 80% of the world's population. It also supports over one million pregnant women at risk of life-threatening conditions per month. UNFPA partners with governments to strengthen their health systems, promote access to integrated SRHR services, and train healthcare workers. UNFPA2 country support is also aimed at ensuring that countries can achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) "including regional and global targets aimed at fast-tracking the ending of AIDS as a public health threat and providing universal access to SRHR by 2030".