Research Indaba III | Evidence for Action - Youth Led Research shaping Policy and Practice
Registration
Speakers
- Secretariat
Conference day
Day 1 — 5 August 2026
Setting the Stage
A scene setting welcome that celebrates regional diversity uniting for youth health and education.
Speakers
- Conference Chairpersons
Opening Remarks
Official Opening remarks setting the tone for the three days of evidence, dialogue, alliance building and action towards sustainable youth health and education outcomes.
Speakers
- Youth Steering Committee Chairperson
Youth Steering Committee
- Fadzai NyamarebvuYouth Steering Committee Country Coordinator · SAYWHAT Namibia · Namibia
The Evidence Engine
Unpacking the journey to Research Indaba III, its objectives and thematic tracks, and how youth-led research will shape the broader SARSYC VI agenda
Speakers
- Jimmy WilfordSARSYC CONVENER · SAYWHAT Org · Zimbabwe
Abstracts Presentation
Repositioning CSE as structural safeguard for education retention in Southern Africa
Speakers
- Harry Gift ChiwozaBachelor of Laws (LLB) Student · University of Malawi · Malawi
Abstracts Presentation
Alcohol use, Smoking, and Sexual Health Behaviours among Namibian University Students: Implications for Health Promotion
Speakers
- Dr. Kahimbi Sylvia Mahoto
- Namibia
Health Break Networking and Poster Viewing
Health Break – Networking and Poster Viewing
Abstracts Presentation
Endometriosis and SRH among AGYW in Zimbabwe: A gender-responsive wellbeing model
Speakers
- Mitchel Chimbga
Abstract Presentation
Leveraging Digital Technology to Address online gambling risks and promote youth financial health
Speakers
- Anthony BwalyaHeavy Equipment Engineering Student · Northern Technical College · Zambia
Abstract Presentation
Breaking the silence: A lived experience perspective on dual diagnosis support in SADC
Speakers
- Khristail Dzigbodi Gabriella Edoh Psychology Student at the University of Pretoria · University of Pretoria · South Africa
Evidence to Action Plenary
Dissecting evidence, translating research into regional realities
Speakers
- Moderator: Dr. Bikinesi (Intrahealth
- Namibia)
- Panellists: · Dr. Takawira (South Africa) · Keikantse Phele (Botswana) · Parliament Researcher Health Committee (Namibia) · Parliament Researcher Education Committee (Namibia) · Parliament Researcher ICT Committee (Namibia)
Abstract Presentation
Bridging visual stigma and clinical practice- gendered representations in youth-targeted HIV and communication
Speakers
- Stirling JX BlundenResearcher for the Just Leaders Programme · Centre for Sexualities, AIDS and Gender · South Africa
Abstract Presentation
Stolen privacy and weaponized images: A qualitative exploration of victim experiences and secondary victimisation in Zimbabwe
Speakers
- Nomsa Matongo Student of Forensic Psychology and Criminology at the University of Zimbabwe · University of Zimbabwe · Zimbabwe
Poster Presentation
Families Under Pressure: Social Stigma and Family Functioning
Speakers
- Guest Presenter
- Dr Zeenat Yassin-Burns
- Africa Centre for Inclusive Health Management
- Stellenbosch University
Evidence, Leadership and Legacy
A thought-proving keynote exploring how evidence can be transformed into policy influence, regional solidarity and lasting impact on youth health and education
Speakers
- Hon. Dr. D. P. ParirenyatwaMedical Doctor, Senator in the Parliament of Zimbabwe. · Executive Director of Chest Medical, Vice President of the 6th SAA Executive Board, Senator in the Parliament of Zimbabwe. · Zimbabwe
Legacy of Evidence
Launch of the SARSYC V Research Volume: 2nd edition — A SADC Regional Perspective by young people on Emerging issues in Health and Education
Speakers
- Hon. Dr. D. P. ParirenyatwaMedical Doctor, Senator in the Parliament of Zimbabwe. · Executive Director of Chest Medical, Vice President of the 6th SAA Executive Board, Senator in the Parliament of Zimbabwe. · Zimbabwe
Celebrating Evidence Excellence
Award ceremony recognizing outstanding youth-led research through presentation of Certificates to all presenters and awards to the top 3 oral presentations.
Speakers
- Judges: · Dr Hendrina Udjombala (Namibia) · Dr Chaka (Zimbabwe) · Dr Zeenat (South Africa)
Closing Remarks
A conclusion connecting evidence generated during Research Indaba III to the wider SARSYC VI journey of dialogue, alliance-building, advocacy and action.
Speakers
- Dr. Choolwe Mphanza MuzyambaAssistant Professor at Utrecht University and a Lecturer at the University of Amsterdam · University of Amsterdam · Netherlands
Abstract Poster Presentation
The Role of Communication in Mitigating Sexual Health Risks Among Adolescent Girls in Climate-stressed Communities of Chihombo District, Zambia
Speakers
- Margaret Ngonga
- Zambia
Abstract Poster Presentation
Advancing Inclusive Health Systems: Integrating Youth in Prison settings into National Health and Wellbeing Responses in Zimbabwe
Speakers
- Blessed Nhodza
- Zimbabwe
Abstract Poster Presentation
Community-Based recovery coaching as a youth-led intervention for street connected children
Speakers
- Melody Chisanga
Abstract Poster Presentation
#NotInMyVillage Harnessing Youth Leadership and Traditional Authority to Address Adolescent Pregnancy and Harmful Practices in Zimbabwe
Speakers
- Ziphozenkosi Ndlovu
- Zimbabwe
Conference day
Day 2 — 6 August 2026
Mugota/Ixhiba Young Men’s Forum | Confronting Suicide, Substance Use & Sexual Health Challenges
Registration
Speakers
- Chairperson
Sisters in Solidarity
A regional welcome celebrating the power of collective action among girls and young women.
Speakers
- Panashe Chibatamoto Conference Co-Chairperson
Gathering the Brotherhood
A welcome session bringing young men from across SADC for an honest dialogue, shared learning and collective action
Speakers
- Shaandre Finnies Conference Co-Chairperson
From Evidence to Reflection to Action
Reflection on the Network’s journey, progress on SARSYC V resolutions, introducing the purpose, theme & expectations for the symposium – advancing education equity, digital safety & healthy lifestyles - drawing insights from the Indaba
Speakers
- Kushinga MadzimaChairperson of the National Coordinating Committee (NCC) SAYWHAT’s Youth Sounding Board in Zimbabwe · NCC · Zimbabwe
- SAYWHAT Youth Sounding Board Chairperson
Introduction and Welcome Remarks
Reflection on the forum journey, progress on SARSYC V resolutions, introducing the purpose, theme & expectations for the SARSYC VI Forum – confronting suicide, substance use & sexual health challenges - drawing insights from the Indaba
Speakers
- Sylvester Chiweza
- SARSYC Youth Steering Committee Member
- Malawi
Youth Steering Committee
- Sylvester G ChiwezaYouth Steering Committee Country Coordinator · SAYWHAT Malawi · Malawi
Safe, Seen and Supported
A keynote address that affirms the rights, resilience and leadership of AGYW, recognizing barriers, inspiring a safe space for meaningful dialogue while challenging participants to design practical, community driven solutions.
Speakers
- Madame Grace Hidinua
- Programme Specialist HIV Prevention/FP
- UNFPA Namibia
The Future We Must Build
A keynote address that validates the challenges facing ABYM, inspire an open and meaningful engagement and challenge participants to become solution designers for Southern Africa Young Men’s Health
Speakers
- Hon. Dino Ballotti
- Deputy Minister of Education
- Innovation
- Youth Sports
- Arts and Culture (MEYISAC)
- Namibia
Building Resilience in a Changing World Plenary Discussion
A participant-led conversation exploring the realities facing AGYW while collectively identifying practical solutions that strengthen resilience, agency and inclusion.
Speakers
- Panellists: · Nyasha Mhondwa (Zimbabwe) · Dr Christi Kruger (University of Pretoria
- South Africa) · Faith Kanguatjivi (SAYOF
- Namibia) ·
The Silence That Kills Us Plenary Discussion
A participant-led conversation exploring the consequences of silence around mental health, substance abuse and sexual health and the actions required to support young men at individual, community and policy levels
Speakers
- Panellists: · Kaitira
- E Kandjii (Director NUST Foundation
- Namibia). Christiaan Joubert (CSA&G
- South Africa). Joseph Mhasvi (ZYC
- Zimbabwe)
The Resilience Blueprint – Evidence from SHE SOARS
Resilience Against Exclusion! Resilience in an Evolving Digital World! Resilience for Lifelong Wellbeing!
Speakers
- Panellist: · Linda (Youth Researcher) · Maryner Lungu (Youth Advisory Board Member) · Ann Kapoloyo (AAZ Adolescent SRHR Advocate) · Moderator: Saazi Kizito
Abstract Poster Presentation
HIV-Induced Psychosis as a rising Mental Health Challenge among Boys and Young men in Sub-Saharan Africa
Speakers
- Tanaka GudzaComputer Science Student · National University of Science and Technology (NUST) · Zimbabwe
Young Women Call to Action
An adoption session where young women collectively affirm commitments and recommendations of the Symposium
Speakers
- Chidadiso Francisca Mbazo
- SARSYC VI Youth Steering Committee Member
- Zimbabwe
Youth Steering Committee
- Chidadiso Francisca MbazoYouth Steering Committee Member · Young People's Network on Health and Wellbeing · Zimbabwe
Young Men’s call to Action
An adoption session where young men collectively affirm commitments and recommendations of the Forum
Speakers
- Victorino Tiaggo
- SARSYC VI Youth Steering Committee
- Namibia
Youth Steering Committee
- Mathias SakalaYouth Steering Committee Member · SHE SOARS Project · Zambia
Alliance Building Labs | Transforming evidence and dialogue into coordinated regional action
A reflective welcome transitioning delegates from gender-sensitive sessions to collective action and regional cooperation
Speakers
- Conference Chairpersons Shaandre Finnies (Namibia)
- Panashe Chibatamoto (Zimbabwe)
The Power of Alliances
A keynote reflection on how strategic partnerships can amplify youth voices, strengthen transnational advocacy and accelerate sustainable change across Southern Africa – a compelling call for collaboration
Speakers
- Ms Martha TholanahStrategic Advisor · AmplifyChange · Zimbabwe
- Amplify Change
5 Years! 5 Countries! 10 Organizations! 1 Voice - The GEAR Alliance Impact Showcase
An exploration of how SARSYC resolutions gave birth to the GEAR Alliance, how alliance- driven advocacy can translate conference commitments into measurable impact - key milestones, lessons learned & opportunities for expansion
Speakers
- Moderator: PraiseGod Masunga
- SAYWHAT Panellist: · Mr. Nyamazi (FACET
- Zimbabwe) · Richard Batch (GAYO
- Malawi) · James Malanji (NAQEZ
- Zambia)
Alliance Spotlight on Regional Solidarity
An interactive panel that reflects on alliances impact and mechanisms required for SARSYC VI Tracks. Documentary Screening: Adolescent Health Policy Reflection
Speakers
- Moderator: Richard Wanzala
- Centre For Reproductive Rights Panellist: · Lynn Chinene (SHE SOARS Alliance) · Admore Dube (Kuyenda Collective). Wadzanai Chitiga (ECOZI)
Session Rapporteur Remarks
Rapporteur presents emerging key commitments and partnership proposals
Speakers
- Leniel Tapiwa Gava
- SARSYC VI Youth Steering Committee Member
- Zimbabwe
Youth Steering Committee
- Leniel Tapiwa GavaYouth Steering Committee Member · SAYWHAT Zimbabwe · Zimbabwe
Students Talks & Engagement with Policymakers and Partners (STEPP)
Introducing STEPP as a platform where youth voices meet policy and practice.
Speakers
- Conference Chairpersons Shaandre Finnies (Namibia)
- Panashe Chibatamoto (Zimbabwe)
STEPP Panel 1 — Sustain the Gains, Advance ABYM Wellbeing
A policy and partnership dialogue responding to youth priorities on suicides, substance abuse, betting addiction and sexual health challenges
Speakers
- Moderator: Leeroy T Mpofu
- SAYWHAT Youth Sounding Board Vice Chairperson Panellists: · Hon Bajila MP (Health
- Zimbabwe) · (MP
- Namibia) · Tendai Mbengeranwa (National AIDS Council
- Zimbabwe). (UNESCO
- Namibia). (NYC
- Namibia)· TBA (UNFPA Zimbabwe)
STEPP Panel 2 — AGYW The Right to Learn, The Right to Be Safe
A policy and partnership dialogue responding to youth priorities on education equity, digital safety, and healthy lifestyles – expanding opportunity and inclusion for young girls/women across Southern Africa
Speakers
- Moderator: Puvi Hengari AfriYAN Namibia
- Panellists: · Hon. Phale
- MP (Finance
- Malawi) · Hon. Nxumalo
- MP (Health
- Eswatini). Ms Ester Simon (Global Campaign For Education
- Namibia). Mercy John (Teach For Zimbabwe). (MP
- Namibia)
STEPP Panel 3- Sustain the Gains, Advance Wellbeing
A policy and partnership dialogue responding to youth priorities on Aage of Consent and Adolescent SRHR in Southern Africa- Lessons, Legal Barriers and pathways for reform
Speakers
- Moderator: Ann Kapoloyo Panellists: (MP
- Namibia). Mr Clice Kalambo (Parliament Researcher
- Committee on Health). Munashe Tofa (SADC PF
- Program Manager - Climate Change
- Environment
- Health/SRHR). Ms Nyamwanza (National AIDS Council
- Zimbabwe). Lynn Chinene (SHE SOARS)
Session Rapporteur Remarks
A synthesis of commitments responses, and priority actions emerging from STEPP
Speakers
- Wankumbu Simukonda
- SARSYC VI Youth Steering Committee Member
- Zambia
Youth Steering Committee
- Wankumbu SimukondaYouth Steering Committee Country Coordinator · SAYWHAT Zambia · Zambia
Conference day
Day 3 — 7 August 2026
High-Level Delegates, Arrival and Briefing
High-Level Delegates, Arrival and Briefing
Namibia/ AU Anthem
High-Level delegates arrival, seating, a celebration of national pride and regional solidarity
Introductions
Introductions celebrating regional diversity uniting for youth health and education.
Speakers
- Conference Co-Chairpersons Shaandre Finnies (Namibia). Panashe Chibatamoto (Zimbabwe)
Opening Remarks
Documentary Screening: SARSYC VI, Twelve Years in the Making
Speakers
- Jimmy WilfordSARSYC CONVENER · SAYWHAT Org · Zimbabwe
- SARSYC Convener
- SAYWHAT Executive Director
Solidarity Remarks
In Solidarity with Southern Africa's Young People
Speakers
- Ms. Eunice Smith
- UNESCO Namibia Country Representative
Solidarity Remarks
The Legacy of Youth Voices
Speakers
- Hon. Dr. D. P. ParirenyatwaMedical Doctor, Senator in the Parliament of Zimbabwe. · Executive Director of Chest Medical, Vice President of the 6th SAA Executive Board, Senator in the Parliament of Zimbabwe. · Zimbabwe
- Society for AIDS in Africa
- Board Trustee
Solidarity Remarks
Solidarity Remarks
Speakers
- Government of Zimbabwe
- Minister of Youth Empowerment
- Development and Vocational Training
- Hon. T Machakaire
Presentation and Formal Handover of the Windhoek Declaration
Windhoek Declaration
Speakers
- SARSYC VI Youth Steering Committee
Acceptance and Commitment Remarks
Windhoek Declaration acceptance
Speakers
- H.E Ms Boemo M. SEKGOMASecretary General of the SADC Parliamentary Forum · SADC · Botswana
- Secretary General
- SADC Parliamentary Forum
Cultural Performance- a celebration of regional solidarity
A musical interlude honouring the partnerships, friendships, and collective commitments forged during SARSYC VI.
Speakers
- University of Namibia choir
Closing Keynote Remarks
A reflection on the pride of hosting SARSYC VI in the Khomas Region and celebrating the achievements of young people, partners, policymakers, while challenging the SADC region to translate the Windhoek Declaration into action and impact across Southern Africa.
Speakers
- Hon. Sam Nujoma Jr.
- Governor of Khomas Region
- Republic of Namibia
Vote of Thanks
Recognize the partnerships, leadership and collective efforts that made SARSYC VI possible while encouraging stakeholders to sustain the momentum, commitments and regional solidarity forged in Windhoek.
Speakers
- Prof. Kenneth Kamwi Matengu
- Vice Chancellor
- University of Namibia
Culture Night | Culture is not the backdrop! It is the Blueprint!
Arrival & Photo Shoot (Cultural Dress Showcase)
Culture Night Opening
Recognition of Country representation- Sixteen Nations, One Movement
Speakers
- Conference Co-Chairpersons Shaandre Finnies (Namibia)
- Panashe Chibatamoto (Zimbabwe)
Keynote Address
Theme: Unity in Diversity- celebrating the rich cultural diversity that defines Namibia and Southern Africa
Speakers
- Sebulon Chiliho Chical CEO of the Namibia Tourism Board
Cultural Performance
Traditional and contemporary cultural expressions
Speakers
- International University of Management (IUM) Traditional Dance Group