Afya na Haki (Ahaki) Updates: Third Quarter Insights and Impact
Welcome to the JulyโSeptember 2025 edition of the Ahaki Newsletter! This quarter has been one of remarkable growth, learning, and shared purpose as we continue to harness Africaโs potential in Health, human rights, and Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights. From celebrating the arrival of our pioneer students to hosting impactful dialogues such as the Reproductive Justice Litigation Baraza, the past months have reaffirmed our commitment to advancing evidence, equity, and advocacy across the continent. Weโre delighted to share these milestones with you. Thank you for being part of our mission!
The 3rd Reproductive Justice Litigation Baraza: Incarceration and SRHR, Defining Pathways for Reproductive Justice
Convened in collaboration with The Catalysts Africa, Fos Feminista, and Rios, and in partnership with UNAIDS, Mama Network, Reach a Hand Uganda, and The Preclusion Project, the Baraza carried forward deeper insights, stronger alliances, and a collective resolve to confront the intersections of incarceration and sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) in the Global South. The conversations revealed how systems of detention often strip individuals, especially women and girls, of their dignity, autonomy, and access to essential care. Grounded in legal rigour, lived realities, and community wisdom, participants envisioned pathways toward a future where justice dismantles barriers, protects rights, and restores humanity. This work continues, sustained by shared knowledge, critical inquiry, and the unwavering belief that reproductive justice must reach everyone, everywhere, including those behind bars
“Health and human rights are inseparable. No one should fear accessing care because it might land them in jail. We must change laws, and we must also change hearts and minds. That means introducing and amplifying African voices for reproductive justice. When we protect rights, we save lives.” โ Winnie Byanyima, Chief Guest
Pioneer Studentsโ Orientation Day
Ahaki Institute officially welcomed its pioneer cohort of students during the Orientation Day at the Instituteโs main campus in Nakwero, Gayaza. More than just the start of classes, the event marked the beginning of a shared journey of learning, discovery, and leadership in Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH). The atmosphere buzzed with energy and anticipation as students immersed themselves in sessions on academic policies, student welfare, and support services, and got a firsthand feel of campus life through a guided tour. As the day went by, new friendships were formed, stories exchanged, and connections built with facilitators who will accompany them throughout their academic journey.
By the end of the day, the cohort had not only learned about the Instituteโs vision but also begun shaping their own place within it as future practitioners and advocates ready to champion social justice and transform health systems across Africa and beyond.
โThe facilitatorsโ rรฉsumรฉs are very impressive, and I am truly excited to tap into their knowledge. The staff have been welcoming and considerate, understanding that we come from diverse backgrounds and making every effort to cater to our needs. Initially, I was hesitant about how it would all fit with our different schedules, but I feel reassured now.โ โ Denise Teta, Postgraduate Diploma (PGD) student from Rwanda
Studentsโ Classes Kick-Off: A Hybrid Learning Journey
After an inspiring Orientation Day, our students officially embarked on their academic journey on August 11, 2025. The semester opened with an intensive one-week in-person session at Ahakiโs main campus in Nakwero, where both Postgraduate Diploma and Bachelorโs students immersed themselves in hands-on training, case studies, and lively group discussions centered on health and social justice. The energy was palpable as ideas flowed, collaborations formed, and a true sense of community began to take shape among the diverse cohorts. At the close of this engaging week, learning seamlessly transitioned to the virtual classroom, bringing together students from across Africa through our interactive e-learning platform. With access to expert facilitators, discussion forums, and flexible learning tools, students are able to balance their studies with their professional and personal livesโwithout missing a beat. This hybrid model embodies Ahaki Instituteโs vision of delivering inclusive and adaptable education that equips emerging advocates to drive health and social justice across the continent. We canโt wait to watch this pioneering class thrive as they learn, connect, and lead changeโboth in and beyond the classroom.
 |  |
 |  |
Launch of The Africa Reproductive Justice Litigation Alliance (ARJLA) Strategic Plan
ARJLA launched its 2025โ2029 strategic plan, setting forth an ambitious and principled framework for advancing reproductive justice across the continent. Grounded in critical legal thought and informed by the lived experiences of marginalised communities, the plan reimagines litigation not merely as a legal tool, but as a catalyst for structural change. In doing so, ARJLA affirms its commitment to challenging oppressive laws and practices, deepening community-centred legal practice, and building continent-wide solidarity for reproductive autonomy, dignity, and justice.
Click here to learn more about ARJLA and how to become a member
Latest study on Legal Defences on Abortion in Uganda and Selected African Countries
Across Africa, restrictive abortion laws continue to endanger womenโs lives and hinder access to essential health services. In Uganda and many other countries on the continent, the legal landscape around abortion remains complex, often misunderstood, inconsistently applied, and surrounded by fear of prosecution for both providers and those seeking care.
This study by Ahaki takes a closer look at these laws, unpacking the circumstances under which abortion may be legally permitted and the exceptions and defences that exist within national legal frameworks. The research illustrates when and how individuals can safely access or provide life-saving abortion and post-abortion care services without facing criminal charges.
Beyond mapping the law, the study strengthens the groundwork for strategic litigation against punitive penal provisions and clarifies possible legal defences for those entangled in the justice system under abortion-related offences. It sheds light on legal contradictions and systemic barriers while offering evidence that can inform advocacy to decriminalise abortionโnot only in Uganda but across Africa. Read the full study here: https://tinyurl.com/46n4xhj4
Strengthened collaboration and partner support in advancing reproductive justice in Africa
As part of ongoing efforts to advance reproductive justice across Africa, our team undertook periodic visits to implementing partners under the Litigating Reproductive Justice in Africa (LIRA) Programme. The visits were designed to assess progress, deepen collaboration, and provide hands-on support to partners driving strategic litigation and advocacy across the continent. We visited partners in Zimbabwe, Nigeria, Senegal, and Malawiโfour of the ten focus countries under the LIRA Programme. These engagements provided an opportunity to exchange progress updates, share lessons, and jointly explore innovative solutions to challenges in implementation. The discussions also included reviews of ongoing litigation strategies aimed at advancing reproductive justice through the courts. These visits reaffirmed a shared commitment among partners to strengthen collaboration and harness the power of strategic litigation as a tool for achieving reproductive justice across Africa.
โAhaki has strengthened our focus on gender justice and litigation. We used to refer cases out, but now, for the first time, we have in-house lawyers and the capacity to litigate. Thanks to Ahaki!โ- Mr. Itai Rusike, Executive Director, Community Working Group on Health (CWGH) in Zimbabwe
Decision Alert: Dorothy Debe v Republic of Nigeria
In this landmark decision, the ECOWAS Court of Justice held the Government of Nigeria accountable for failing to ensure access to safe and legal abortion servicesโaffirming its obligations under Article 14 of the Maputo Protocol. The case, argued by Lawyers Alert, one of Ahakiโs implementing partners under the Litigating Reproductive Justice in Africa (LIRA) Programme, marks a major victory for reproductive rights in the region.
This ruling not only underscores state accountability in protecting womenโs health and rights but also sets a powerful legal precedent by affirming the inseparable link between the right to health and access to reproductive services. It represents a crucial step forward in advancing reproductive justice across Africa. Read the full decision alert here
Shaping regional conversations towards advancing Local Pharmaceutical Production
Ahaki is proud to be part of the Expert Review Team for the State of Africaโs Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Report, an initiative led by the African Union Development Agency (AUDA-NEPAD). The first consultative meeting, held in July in Accra, Ghana, brought together experts from across the continent to review and enrich the draft report.
For Ahaki, this was a valuable opportunity to share evidence and insights from our Programme on Advancing Regional Vaccine and Pharmaceutical Manufacturing in Africa, contributing to the broader conversation on how Africa can strengthen its pharmaceutical manufacturing capacity. The forthcoming report will play a key role in shaping continental and global strategies for a more resilient and self-reliant pharmaceutical ecosystem in Africa.
And that wraps up this edition of the Ahaki Newsletter! We thank you for taking the time to read, for your continued interest in our work, and for your steadfast support. Until our next issue, stay inspired, stay engaged, and keep connected with us as we continue to advance health, human rights, and social justice across Africa.
