I often ask myself: What’s the worst that could happen if religious leaders openly spoke about sexual and reproductive health? Would it break the church? Or would it finally break the silence that has allowed issues like teenage pregnancy, HIV infections among adolescent girls, and sexual violence rape, defilement, and incest to persist unchecked?
Despite being pillars of purity and morality, faith institutions must also recognize that we are human imperfect and vulnerable. The “holier than thou” attitude many adopt often leads to silence, stigma, and shame, which only deepens the very issues we seek to avoid.
Religious leaders hold enormous influence within our communities. We know that when a faith leader speaks, many listen and act. So imagine the impact if, after a service, a pastor or imam took a moment to talk about menstrual hygiene management, or advocated for the installation of proper changing rooms with sanitary towels in places of worship. Imagine if they spoke out against domestic violence, early and forced marriages, female genital mutilation, or challenged harmful cultural practices that devalue women and girls.
What if a religious leader condemned stigma and discrimination against persons with disabilities or people living with HIV? Such boldness could transform attitudes, empower parents and children with critical SRHR information, and start conversations that save lives.
Courage, love, and truth are not separate from faith they are its very foundation. The Bible calls us to be bold, to speak the truth in love, and to protect the vulnerable. The greatest commandment is love. Let us extend that love by creating safe, inclusive, and informed spaces even within our places of worship.
To all faith leaders: Be the voice your community needs. Not one of silence, but one of courage, compassion, and change.
Written By: Miranda Violet Bagamba
Advocacy & Communications Officer