Lunia Centre for Youths

20/11/2025

: We are currently taking part in a Regional Consultation Meeting to contribute to the development of the next CSO Charter, ensuring that the perspectives of young people and communities in Matabeleland North are meaningfully represented.

This consultation meeting brings together a diverse range of CSOs and CBOs to update the national context analysis, reviewing progress made and gaps that remain since the GC7 CSO Charter, and setting a clear direction for Global Fund Cycle 8 (GC8) implementation.

The discussions are focused on gathering CSO inputs that will influence key national health frameworks, including:
• ZNASP V (2025–2030)
• Zimbabwe National Health Strategy (2026–2030)
• Global Fund Cycle 8 strategic directions

The meeting also seeks to ensure alignment of CSO priorities with the WHO Global Health Strategy (2025–2028) making sure that community led actions strengthen people centred services, improve health emergency preparedness, and advance equity and accountability within the health sector.

A key output of this consultation is the development of a CSO Action Plan and Roadmap to influence ZNASP V, the National Health Strategy, and GC8 processes.

The Lunia Centre for Youths remains committed to ensuring that youth perspectives are not only heard but meaningfully integrated into national health priorities and global fund processes.



FACT Zimbabwe terre des hommes schweiz Community Working Group on Health - CWGH The Global Fund My Age Africa Young People's Network On SRHR, HIV & AIDS Dot YOUTH African Institute for Development Policy (AFIDEP) World Bank NANGO Zimbabwe Zimbabwe Aids Network Jointed Hands Welfare Organisation

19/11/2025

Happy International Men’s Day to all the men and boys! As the saying goes, “A real man is not the one who is feared, but one who is respected for his kindness and strength.”

Today, under the theme “Celebrating Men and Boys,” we honour the important roles men play in our families, communities and society. From being mentors, friends and leaders, to supporting the growth and wellbeing of those around them, men and boys make a difference every day.

Let’s take a moment to appreciate their efforts, uplift their voices and recognise the positive impact they have in our lives. Today is not only about honouring their contributions but also about creating spaces where men can grow, feel valued and supported.

Tag a man or boy who is making a difference and let’s celebrate them together!



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17/11/2025

It's , and we're raising awareness about Men's Mental Health Month. This year, we're observing Men’s Mental Health Month under the theme "Changing the Face of Men's Health", emphasizing that men's mental health matters and it's time to break the stigma.

Men are disproportionately affected by su***des with global estimates suggesting a significant number of male deaths. In many countries, men are 3-4 times more likely to die by su***de than women. This highlights that men are not immune to challenges and sometimes, when it becomes too much, they may feel like ending their lives. This underscores the urgent need to raise awareness and create a safe space for men to open up about their struggles.

Men often face societal pressure to be strong, and in control, making it difficult for them to express their emotions and seek help. However, mental health affects everyone, regardless of gender, age or background. It's time to redefine what it means to be a man. It’s okay to be vulnerable, to ask for help and to prioritize your mental wellbeing.

Let's work together to create a supportive environment where men feel comfortable discussing their mental health.



terre des hommes schweiz Emergency Nutrition Network Bekezela HBC Young People's Network On SRHR, HIV & AIDS Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance UNESCO Health NGOs Network - Hennet African Institute for Development Policy (AFIDEP) Action Against Hunger USA The Global Fund World Bank

13/11/2025

: We’re currently participating in a Priority Setting Workshop organized by My Age Africa aimed at identifying and agreeing on key youth priorities for national dialogue.

As the health landscape continues to evolve amid shrinking donor aid, it’s vital to ensure a smooth transition towards sustainability especially as we prepare for the Global Fund Grant Cycle 8.

This workshop brings together diverse youth constituencies, including young people in and out of school, persons with disabilities, and youth advocates in the HIV, TB, and malaria response. Together, we aim to ensure that young people’s voices and priorities are clearly outlined.

A key outcome of this meeting will be the development of a Civil Society Charter, a crucial document to guide meaningful youth engagement throughout the Global Fund Cycle 8 process.

The discussions are guided by three core principles of the Global Fund’s approach:
1️⃣ Strengthen and maintain impact
2️⃣ Advance sustainability
3️⃣ Optimize, integrate, and streamline processes

Lunia Centre for Youths remains committed to ensuring that youth perspectives and innovations are at the forefront of these efforts for a healthier, more equitable future!



SAT Zimbabwe Katswe Sistahood Dot YOUTH Youth Decide Zimbabwe Development Agenda for Girls and Women in Africa Network - DAWA National AIDS Council of Zimbabwe UNESCO The Global Fund terre des hommes schweiz

12/11/2025

We're excited to share that we recently represented the voices of youth led organizations and young people in Zimbabwe at the Global Civil Society and Country Working Group (CSCG) meeting held on November 8-9 in Dakar, Senegal!

This crucial gathering brought together advocates, civil society organizations, and youth leaders from Global Financing Facility (GFF) partner countries to discuss key priorities and strategies for advancing global health and nutrition goals, particularly for women, children, and adolescents.

Throughout the workshop, we worked alongside other civil society organizations and youth leaders to shape collective advocacy priorities ahead of the 21st Investors Group meeting. Our participation was instrumental in ensuring that the voices and concerns of young people in Zimbabwe are represented at the global level.

We exchanged experiences, shared best practices, and aligned our priorities to push for increased investments and commitments to support the health and wellbeing of women, children, and adolescents worldwide. Key highlights included discussions on:

✅The role of CSOs and youth in global health architecture and policies.
✅The GFFxCIVIC partnership model which explored ways to strength collaboration between diverse and different institutions.
✅Strategies for meaningful youth participation in GFF governance and implementation emphasizing the importance of inclusive decision making processes.

As representatives of Zimbabwe's youth, we're committed to continuing our advocacy work, amplifying the voices of young people, and pushing for a more equitable and sustainable future for all. We're dedicated to ensuring that the GFF serves the needs of our communities and prioritizes the health and wellbeing of women, children, and adolescents.



Emergency Nutrition Network terre des hommes schweiz Community Working Group on Health - CWGH Action Against Hunger USA AmplifyChange The Global Fund UNICEF Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance World Bank Health NGOs Network - Hennet Gates Foundation African Institute for Development Policy (AFIDEP)

10/11/2025

We Stand in Solidarity with South Africa. On 21 November, South Africa comes to a nationwide standstill. This is a bold call to action against the persistent scourge of Gender Based Violence (GBV).

At Lunia Centre for Youths, we stand shoulder to shoulder with women, girls and allies across Zimbabwe and the region who are saying enough is enough. This shutdown is more than a pause. It’s also a collective cry for justice, dignity and change.

Behind every number and every statistic is a woman or girl whose dreams have been shattered by violence, whose voice has been silenced by fear and whose story demands to be heard. GBV is not confined by borders but it affects communities across Africa, tearing at the fabric of families, schools and societies.

As a youth organization, we believe that ending GBV starts with awareness, accountability and collective action. We must create communities where young women and girls can live free from fear, where boys and men are part of the solution and where justice is not delayed or denied.

This is a moment to stand still, to reflect, to remember and to recommit ourselves to building safer spaces for all. Because every woman, every girl and every survivor deserves to live with dignity, respect and freedom.



terre des hommes schweiz Girls and Women Empowerment Network - GWEN Community Working Group on Health - CWGH The Global Fund Childline Zimbabwe PMNCH Accountability Lab My Age Africa Million Memory Project Zimbabwe - MMPZ Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training Bantwana Zimbabwe Bekezela HBC Dot YOUTH The Girls Table fans Whole Woman Movement Developing Women For Skills And Opportunities Initiative Rural Young Women Support Network

07/11/2025

Consent is active and evolving!
Remember, a “YES” today doesn’t automatically mean a “YES” tomorrow. Consent is not a one time agreement. It can change depending on circumstances, context or comfort levels. Always check in with your partner by asking questions like, “Are you still comfortable?” or “Should we pause?” Respecting someone’s boundaries shows care, builds trust and helps prevent misunderstandings.



terre des hommes schweiz Community Working Group on Health - CWGH fans The Global Fund Childline Zimbabwe PMNCH Accountability Lab Million Memory Project Zimbabwe - MMPZ My Age Africa Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training Bantwana Zimbabwe Bekezela HBC Dot YOUTH

06/11/2025

: In collaboration with the SPARK Champions, we recently convened an SRHR Awareness Campaign through a soccer tournament in Ward 14, Makhaza, Tsholotsho District. The initiative brought together the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training, Ministry of Health and Child Care, local community leaders, and most importantly, young people. This demonstrated how sport can be a powerful platform for youth engagement and health promotion.

While the tournament brought excitement and unity, it also created a safe space for young people to access vital sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) information and services. The Ministry of Health provided on site services including:
• HIV Testing
• Pregnancy Testing
• Family Planning Services
• Condom Distribution

The SPARK Champions played a central role in facilitating peer discussions and sharing accurate SRHR information, ensuring that young participants left empowered to make informed decisions about their health and future.

We believe sport is more than just a game but it can also be used as a tool for connection, learning and empowerment. Through initiatives like this, we continue to strengthen community participation, promote access to SRHR services and nurture youths who are informed, healthy and confident young people who take charge of their wellbeing.



terre des hommes schweiz Community Working Group on Health - CWGH The Global Fund Childline Zimbabwe PMNCH fans Accountability Lab My Age Africa Million Memory Project Zimbabwe - MMPZ Znfpcmatnorth Dot YOUTH National AIDS Council of Zimbabwe

05/11/2025

We are thrilled to share that we participated in an Advocacy Review Meeting conducted by Community Working Group on Health - CWGH. The meeting focused on reflecting and reviewing progress made on youth led Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) advocacy strategies implemented.

Youth led organisations from Masvingo, Mangwe, Bubi and Bulawayo came together to share their SRHR advocacy insights, experiences and strategies for creating lasting change in their communities. Discussions highlighted challenges such as limited access to SRHR information and services, myths and misconceptions and cultural barriers that continue to hinder young people from fully exercising their rights.

Key Takeaways from the Review Meeting
• There is a growing need to improve access to accurate SRHR information and services in underserved areas.
• Cultural and traditional barriers continue to influence how young people make SRHR related decisions.
• Youth voices are vital in shaping policies that directly affect them and they must be meaningfully engaged in advocacy spaces.
• Practical and evidence based advocacy strategies can help translate ideas into real community change. Collecting and using data strengthens advocacy messages and ensures that young people’s demands are supported by facts.
• Social media advocacy plays a critical role in amplifying youth voices, raising awareness and mobilizing communities around SRHR issues.
• Effective communication and negotiation are essential when framing SRHR issues for policymakers.
• Accountability, policy and transparency are fundamental advocacy principles that should guide all SRHR efforts.

The review meeting showed that youth led advocacy remains a powerful force in advancing SRHR awareness and access. Equipping young people with the right knowledge, communication skills, digital tools, and strategic approaches helps build a generation that drives inclusive and sustainable change.



terre des hommes schweiz The Global Fund Childline Zimbabwe PMNCH Accountability Lab Ministry of Health and Child Care My Age Africa Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training Lunia Centre for Youths fans

04/11/2025

It's Global Action Month O'Clock and young people are turning their voices into action! This month is dedicated to empowering youth to understand the climate crisis and take bold steps towards creating a more sustainable future.

Global Action Month is guided by the urgent need for climate action. Our organization also focuses on SDG11 which underscores making communities safe, resilient and sustainable. Young people, especially in rural areas, face unique climate challenges, but they're also the drivers of positive change. This month, they're leading, advocating and inspiring action on issues that matter most to them.

From promoting sustainable practices to driving environmental action, young people are shaping their futures and advocating for a healthier planet. They're taking care of their health, protecting the environment and pushing for climate justice.

Throughout November, let's raise awareness and support youth led initiatives! Whether it's through education, activism or community work, every action counts. Let's amplify youth voices and empower them to create lasting change.

Join the movement and be part of the solution! Together, we can build a more resilient, sustainable future for all.



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31/10/2025

There is progress in Bulawayo as the HIV prevalence drops from 13.2% to 10.7%, according to Herald News. Community driven initiatives and increased male involvement are making a difference! This drop highlights the importance of collective efforts in HIV prevention and treatment. Read the article below for more information:

https://www.heraldonline.co.zw/bulawayo-sees-significant-drop-in-hiv-prevalencemale-involvement-praised/

terre des hommes schweiz Community Working Group on Health - CWGH The Global Fund Childline Zimbabwe PMNCH Ministry of Health and Child Care Accountability Lab Young People's Network On SRHR, HIV & AIDS Znfpcmatnorth National AIDS Council of Zimbabwe

Nqobile Bhebhe,Zimpapers Business Hub Bulawayo has recorded a remarkable decline in HIV prevalence, with latest figures showing a drop from 13.2 percent in 2020 to 10.7 percent by the end…

30/10/2025

Let’s talk about the Climate Change Bill!

Today, we had an enlightening experience participating in a radio interview with Dot YOUTH, conducted by Communitypodium, where we explored the details of the Climate Change Bill. The discussion centered around the proposed law to integrate financial mechanisms, legal obligations and development planning with climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies.

We examined the bill's key provisions, which are crucial in shaping its enactment into law. Notably, the bill's emphasis on integrating climate change considerations into development planning and financial mechanisms is a significant step forward. This integration has the potential to enhance Zimbabwe's resilience to climate related disasters and promote sustainable development.

A crucial aspect of the bill is its focus on vulnerable communities, aiming to ensure equitable access to climate finance and resources. This provision is vital in addressing the disproportionate impact of climate change on marginalized groups, including women, children and rural communities.

Regarding health, climate change has far reaching implications, including health related diseases. We emphasized the need for the health cluster to be included in the National Climate Fund to ensure that climate related health risks are adequately addressed. This inclusion will enable the health sector to access necessary resources and support to respond to climate related health impacts.

Overall, the Climate Change Bill is a significant step towards addressing Zimbabwe's climate change challenges. With careful consideration of the gaps and challenges, we believe the bill has the potential to positively impact the lives of Zimbabweans and contribute to a more sustainable future.



terre des hommes schweiz Community Working Group on Health - CWGH The Global Fund PMNCH Accountability Lab My Age Africa Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training Zimbabwe Council of Churches