• Yamikani Mtisau
• Esakkiappan Mugundharajan

Background Meeting of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) of young people is an essential component of their overall well-being, yet in the recently there is a growing concern regarding the limited knowledge and awareness among youth especially from rural areas. This research paints a comprehensive assessment of Malawi youth knowledge on SRHR, thereby bridging the gap in understanding the challenges and opportunities in this critical domain. Methods The study adopted a descriptive research design mainly to ascertain the youth knowledge on SRHR. In line with this, the study therefore used a structured questionnaire survey, focus group discussions and Key Informant Interviews to collect data on the participants’ knowledge on SRHR. Assessed topics were on contraception, sexually transmitted infections, reproductive rights, attitude towards SRHR and access to healthcare services. Results The findings of the study revealed varied levels of knowledge among the youth participants regarding SRHR topics. While some demonstrated adequate understanding on contraception and STIs, there were gaps in knowledge related to reproductive rights and access to healthcare services. Additionally, the results highlighted disparities in access to SRHR information and services based on gender, socioeconomic status, and educational level. Conclusion This study provides valuable insights into the current level of knowledge on SRHR among youth in Ta Malili, Lilongwe, Malawi. The findings emphasize the need for tailored interventions and educational programs to improve youth awareness and access to SRHR information and services. By addressing the identified gaps, it is possible to empower young people in Ta Malili to make informed decisions about their sexual and reproductive health, ultimately contributing to their overall well-being and rights.

Sexual and Reproductive Health; Youth; Gender based violence; Contraceptive; Family planning; Sexually Transmitted Infections

"An assessment of youth’s understanding on sexual and reproductive health rights in traditional authority Malili in Lilongwe", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.11, Issue 4, page no.d98-d107, April-2024, Available :http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2404315.pdf

"An assessment of youth’s understanding on sexual and reproductive health rights in traditional authority Malili in Lilongwe", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org | UGC and issn Approved), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.11, Issue 4, page no. ppd98-d107, April-2024, Available at : http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2404315.pdf