Addressing the Triple Threat of Unintended Pregnancy, HIV and Sexual and Gender-Based Violence
The Triple Threat has ripple effects that prevent girls from reaching their full potential.
Urban poor girls are disproportionately impacted by the Triple Threat due to a lack of:
- Awareness
50% of young people in sub-Saharan Africa have inadequate SRH knowledge. Studies show girls do not know how to access SRH-care or what is available to them. This is exacerbated by stigma and socio-cultural beliefs that discourage open SRH communication with teachers or parents. - Accessibility
Less than 50% of girls have access to SRH in most African countries. Stigma from communities and health professionals prevent girls from accessing care. Frequent SRH product stockouts further prevent access. - Affordability
More than 65% of SRH expenditure in Africa is paid by the patients. While public health facilities offer free/subsidised SRH services, these facilities are not always a viable option for girls due to their limited availability in low-income communities and their perceived low quality.
It is because of these factors that:
- One in four girls in sub-Saharan Africa becomes pregnant before 18.
- Girls aged 15-24 account for 63% of new HIV infections.
- One in five has experienced sexual violence, a driver of unintended pregnany and HIV infection.
The triple threat and poverty creates a harmful cycle that holds them back.
Tiko breaks that cycle by connecting girls to free health and wellbeing services through a tech-enabled and community-powered network of mobilisers, health workers and clinics, who all act as companions. By removing barriers and working across health systems they help girls stay resilient to shape their futures.
