Global lessons, local impact- HLPC at the Safe Abortion Action Fund Global Gathering in Kenya

Participants at the Global Gathering organised by the Safe Abortion Action Fund convened in  Nairobi, Kenya, in November 2023.

In November 2023, the Health Law and Policy Consortium (HLPC) and the Institute for Young Women’s Development (IYWD) joined advocates from across the world at the Safe Abortion Action Fund (SAAF) Global Gathering in Kenya. The convening created a space for organisations advancing abortion rights to share strategies, successes, and challenges in their work. For HLPC, it was a moment of learning, solidarity, and inspiration that continues to shape its advocacy in Zimbabwe.

Clontilda James, representing HLPC and IYWD, at the exhibition stand showcasing the work HLPC and IYWD do at the Global Gathering in Kenya, November 2023.

One of the most valuable lessons came from an organisation in Mozambique, which shared how they had strengthened their advocacy by carefully researching the priorities and interests of Members of Parliament before engaging them. This approach allowed them to frame safe abortion not just as a health issue, but as one that directly connected to the values and responsibilities of policymakers.

Clontilda James, representing HLPC and IYWD, shared the work that the partnership has done so far in Zimbabwe to advance access to safe abortion services at the Global Gathering in Kenya, November 2023.

HLPC took this lesson and redesigned its policy engagement approach, opting for smaller, more focused meetings with Parliamentarians. Before each session, HLPC took time to understand the personal and political priorities of MPs. By doing so, conversations became more meaningful, linking safe abortion to issues MPs already cared deeply about, such as reducing maternal deaths, protecting young women’s health, and supporting community wellbeing.

The results have been significant, In these smaller spaces, Parliamentarians felt freer to engage, ask questions, and reflect. Some MPs who had once been reluctant to address abortion began to view it differently, recognising its importance in saving lives and improving healthcare access. These new levels of dialogue and trust have already translated into stronger partnerships between HLPC and policymakers, bringing the push for safe abortion reform closer to reality.

HLPC’s experience at the SAAF Global Gathering is proof that global solidarity fuels local progress. By learning from peers and adapting strategies to Zimbabwe’s context, HLPC has been able to strengthen its advocacy, build new alliances, and take steps toward ensuring that every woman can access safe and dignified abortion care.