Mission Peru

As the 2006 elections approach, Alejandro Toledo's government is desperately trying to appease the discontent and social movements, whose main demands in 2005 were for a salary increase, a review of agricultural policy and improved living conditions. However, unemployment and great poverty continue to cause deep disquiet in Peruvian society, especially in Lima, where more than a third of the population live on less than two dollars a day.

Promoting sexual and reproductive health

Lima

Activities:

The project aims to improve access to preventive and curative care with respect to sexual and reproductive health for 10 to 19 year olds. It works in three districts of the southern cone of Lima, around 9 existing health structures and through:

• community awareness through trained promoters working within the districts to locate isolated young mothers and pregnant teenagers who do not have access to the health structures; a massive awareness campaign with more than two campaigns per district; support for local health structures through renovation and equipment, and healthcare staff training; work with schools;
• identifying reception and meeting places exclusively for teenagers. Supplied by the town councils, these are listening and awareness centres which provide contact with local health professionals;
• developing a local network of those interested in caring for teenage mothers: local government (town halls), basic welfare organisations, and public and private institutions of civil society.

Outlook:

The following activities will be implemented:

• a mass awareness campaign (such as a concert for young people);
• two awareness campaigns per district (six in total);
• training 45 peer teenagers;
• opening nine centres for young people;
• renovating and equipping nine health structures;
• activating a network of key people.

July 2006