Health

At least half of the world's population lacks access to basic health services. Especially sexual and reproductive health services remain insufficient in low-income countries. Health for all is therefore a major challenge, which Horyzon is addressing by contributing to the promotion of health among young people. The Horyzon Health Project is implemented in Uganda and Palestine and covers the following areas:

Promotion of sexual and reproductive health
In workshops on topics such as self-esteem, family planning and sexual education, 896 participants per year learn more about their sexual and reproductive rights. In addition, village discussions on topics related to sexuality promote intergenerational exchange. Social workers receive further trainings in dealing with people who have experienced sexual violence, and affected young women receive psychological support. Tambua Peter from South Sudan also acquired knowledge about sexual and reproductive health, a topic that is a taboo in his community but which, according to Peter, is essential for optimal family and future planning for young people.

Tambua Peter

Tambua Peter gained knowledge about sexual and reproductive health through the health program in South Sudan. Today, the 19-year-old mentors other participants in the project. Photo: Nyokabi Kohura, 2021

Improvement of hygiene and basic medical care
Every year, 1,160 young people are supported in gaining access to medical supplies and treatment, as well as learning more about hygiene and health issues. In addition, people with physical or mental disabilities, such as 20-year-old Amal Abu Ahort, receive medical support. The young woman from the West Bank has progeroid syndrome, a physical impairment that causes the body to age faster. As part of the Horyzon Health Project, Amal received intensive psychosocial counselling and was able to relieve her pain through physical therapy. A medical device for the back also supports her spine.

1 Amal Abu Ahour

After Amal successfully completed the rehabilitation project's vocational training, she opened her own cosmetics store. Photo: YMCA East Jerusalem, 2021

Trauma therapy and psychosocial support
2,440 young people receive psychosocial support each year and take part in trauma and family therapies as needed. The training of psychologists and health workers ensures that participants are well supported. In order to raise awareness of mental health, workshops are also held on topics such as depression, suicide and anxiety. Recreational activities such as dance, yoga and art also support the processing of traumatic experiences. In the Kiryandongo refugee settlement in Uganda, Major and Jusuf participate in art therapy with over 500 other traumatized children. As a result of the therapy, they now show improved concentration and stronger academic performance.

2021 Uganda Major und Jusuf

Major and Jusuf participate in art therapy at Kiryandongo Refugee Settlement in Uganda. In the beginning, Major painted how his home in South Sudan was set on fire by rebels. By now, not much of the trauma is evident and his drawings depict an intact home and his family in the settlement. Photo: Amélie Gottier, 2021

Topics