Young People’s Understanding of Sexual Health and Sexuality: Exploration of the Situation in Rwanda

Globalization simultaneously has positive and negative impacts on almost all economic, political and social levels. Among the negative effects facilitated by globalization, some cultures are being diluted and/or destroyed at the expense of others, negative values are being spread all over the world, for example, illicit trade in drugs, prostitution, pornography, human smuggling, brain drain. Sexual health and sexuality are topics that are hardly discussed due to people’s cultures and religious beliefs. Open discussion of sexual matters between parents and their children or teachers with students is usually absent at the very time when it is most needed. Worldwide sexual health and sexuality especially the current discussion of people’s sexual orientations are raising different opinions; many debates are ongoing and social workers are facing ethical dilemmas in handling issues related to sexuality and sexual health issues. Lacking information on sexuality and sexual health creates particular difficulties for young people who are most likely to be mobile and therefore face numerous challenges. In Rwanda, despite all efforts, measures and actions put in place to ensure sexual health, Rwandan culture and religious beliefs are strongly affecting the way information about sexual health and sexuality is being transmitted. The issue of youth sexuality is very important, especially when Rwanda is preoccupied with curbing the population growth rate. This article will explore issues relating to young people’s understandings of sexual health and sexuality in Rwanda.

Keywords: exual health, sexuality, young people, Rwanda