The Health City, a non-governmental organisation (NGO) in Nigeria, has launched an app aimed at empowering adolescents and young people with accurate information on sexual health.
The team lead/founder of The Health City, Dr. Odunola Olabintan noted that the culture of shame surrounding sexual health issues in society has prevented young people from accessing sexual health services, putting them at risk of unwanted pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV. The app offers virtual consultation services and access to accurate sexual health information.
Since the launch in February 2023, The Health City has attended to over 100 adolescents and young people, providing them with the necessary information and addressing their concerns. The service costs N1,000 and offers a 30-45-minute consultation with a qualified medical doctor. The service is fully confidential and professional, allowing adolescents and young people to discuss their sexual health issues and receive reliable medical advice from the comfort of their homes.
However, the NGO faces a challenge in marketing the app to more young people in the country. They believe that by reaching more young people, they can help them make informed decisions about their sexual health, leading to a reduction in the number of unwanted pregnancies and STIs. The app aims to provide a much-needed service to young people who may feel uncomfortable or stigmatized when seeking sexual health services in person.
In conclusion, The Health City’s initiative to provide virtual consultation services and access to accurate sexual health information through an app is a commendable effort in empowering adolescents and young people in Nigeria.
With more marketing and awareness, more young people can benefit from this much-needed service and make informed decisions about their sexual health. The app serves as a model for other NGOs and social enterprises seeking to provide preventive health services and education through technology.
