Zambia in 2024
The need
In Zambia, adolescents make up more than half of the population and they face sexual and reproductive health related challenges, with 50% having had sex before age 18, often due to early marriages and cultural beliefs. Myths and barriers around contraceptives increase the risk of unprotected sex. Limited access to sexual and reproductive health and services significantly contributes to issues like sexual assault, early pregnancies, and HIV infections among adolescents. In Zambia, only 60% of adolescents living with HIV are on treatment and 36% of Zambian women have experienced physical violence since the age of fifteen.
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Our work in Zambia
Tiko’s operations began in Zambia in late 2023. Our operations focus primarily in the capital city of Lusaka, with expansion planned in other geographies. Tiko has been working closely within education networks to engage adolescents and young people, and in less than a year, has already developed a thriving ecosystem of partners – community-based organisations, mobilisers, health service providers and retailers – who are unlocking access to sexual and reproductive healthcare for young people. Tiko’s ecosystem grew to include HIV testing at public and private clinics, pharmacies, and retail sites. The ecosystem now includes five public clinics, five private facilities, two pharmacies, and 10 youth serving retailers. Our presence at key national forums in HIV prevention, mental health, and health research elevated our visibility and fostered critical partnerships. This integration positioned Tiko as a credible player in Zambia’s national health response.
The Tiko ecosystem in Zambia
78
Mobilisers
12
Health Service
Providers
4
Local Retailers
Testimonial
Sharon
Lusaka, Zambia
Most of the young people engage with Tiko mobilisers because they know there is someone that won’t judge me. That person will be there for me. Tiko becomes a place for them.
