In observance of World Contraceptive Day 2025, a group under the banner “Youth Arise 4 Development” (YA4D), in collaboration with the West Point Adolescents Initiative and with generous support from DKT International Liberia, has empowered over 300 youth in West Point and New Kru Town through a two-day awareness and engagement campaign.
This year’s global theme, “A choice for all. Freedom to plan, power to choose,” was localized under the activity theme: “Shared Choice, Shared Responsibility: Empowering Men and Boys for a Healthier Future.” Also, vulnerable communities such as West Point and New Kru Town experience some of the highest rates of teenage motherhood and fatherhood due to poverty, misinformation, and limited access to modern contraceptives.
While interventions often focus on girls and women, men and boys remain under-engaged despite their critical role in contraceptive use and support for women’s reproductive choices. The program was designed to bridge the gap, positioning men and boys as active partners in promoting safe sexual practices and preventing teenage pregnancies.
During the two days awareness, participants engaged in, awareness sessions on contraceptive methods, myths, and benefits, practical demonstrations on proper condom use, distribution of 300 condom packs to men and boys aged 15–35 and motivational testimonies from local male role models. Day one was held in West Point, while Day 2 took place in New Kru Town, reaching the full target of 300 direct beneficiaries and indirectly impacting hundreds of women, families, and community members.
The key outcomes of the activities include practical knowledge on contraceptives and safe sexual practices. Participants received free condoms and learned correct usage, improved male engagement in preventing teenage pregnancies and supporting women’s reproductive health choices.
Speaking after the awareness, Jutomue Doetein, Executive Director of Youth Arise 4 Development (YA4D), said the initiative is a turning point in how men and boys engaged in family planning conversations. According to him, by empowering youth, the awareness will help them tackle one of the root causes of teenage pregnancy in the most vulnerable communities.
