Africa: Faith Leaders Push for Open Conversations on Sexuality and SRHR

What the report says

Faith leaders and health advocates gathered in Mombasa, Kenya, for the MenEngage Africa SRHR Learning and Exchange Symposium to discuss how religious communities can support open conversations about sexuality and sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR). The AllAfrica report, published 13 August 2026, centers on Imam Bukuru Elie Khalfan, a Burundian faith leader who said his own early experience of becoming a father without adequate SRHR knowledge shaped his decision to speak more openly with young people and parents.

Khalfan argued that religious leaders are already deeply involved in family life and should use their influence to reduce stigma, improve education and support women and girls. He said faith leaders can help correct misinformation, engage outside of weekly sermons, and build the skills needed to interpret religious teachings in local contexts. The article says he also emphasized that conversations about sexuality should not be limited to health settings or policy forums, but should also take place in mosques, churches and other religious spaces.

Other speakers at the panel highlighted the need for broader coalitions and early responses to anti-gender mobilization. Koami Mawuwi Ahiakon warned that progressive actors should not leave the issue to LGBTQ organizations alone, while Reverend Ngonidzashe Mutume said faith leaders should be treated as trusted gatekeepers rather than obstacles. He pointed to approaches in Botswana, Zimbabwe and Malawi that aim to root SRHR dialogue in scripture and theology so change is more likely to be accepted within communities.