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

Abstract

There has been a strong global focus on the integration of sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services over the past three decades. The 1994 International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) called for global efforts to integrate SRH services, within primary healthcare1. The 2gether 4 SRHR programme is a Joint United Nations (UN) Regional Programme combining efforts from UNFPA, UNAIDS, UNICEF, and WHO, to improve SRHR in the Eastern and Southern African region2. It focuses on strengthening the provision of integrated (SRHR, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and sexual and gender-based violence) services, targeting adolescent girls and young people as well as key populations. In South Africa, UNFPA collaborates with the South African National Department of Health (NDoH) and through this partnership contracted Optidel Global and Umthombo weMpilo Institute to incorporate and implement integrated service delivery models during the period 2017-2022. The two implementers were funded by UNFPA through a grant from the Swedish government to facilitate the integration of SRHR, HIV, and SGBV services in selected districts within two provinces namely Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal. These provinces and districts were selected based on their high burden of HIV and Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS), maternal mortality, SGBV as well as poverty. The implementation of integrated services was carried out in a phased approach.