ABSTRACT
This chapter presents an overview of what is known about the SRHR of young key populations (YKP) in Southern Africa, using specific examples from five countries, namely Angola, Madagascar, Mozambique, Zambia and Zimbabwe, to anchor the discussion. The discussion draws on the social determinants of health framework to structure an analysis of what is known about the determinants and drivers of SRH risk and to highlight the gaps in evidence and understanding of specific vulnerabilities of these groups of youth. Our initial findings point to the importance of understanding the vulnerabilities and risks faced by young people in these key populations in the context of a wider consideration of the social determinants of health of all young people, as well as in the context of the full range of SRH needs and priorities which include but go beyond HIV alone. Moreover, looking more broadly at the economic situation of young people, educational and employment opportunities, health systems, and peer and family networks will give us a more complete picture that will help us to understand how and why certain young people are more at risk for negative SRH outcomes than others. This more comprehensive approach creates the foundations for the development of equally comprehensive and more inclusive policies and programmes to protect and promote the SRHR of all young people in the region in all of their diversity.
