Annual Report 2023

A year of growth, impact, and community transformation in youth development across Africa.

Download Full Report

Contents

1
Executive Summary
2
Executive Director's Note
3
Key Highlights
4
Target Beneficiaries
5
Program Impact
6
Key Projects
7
Key Lessons
8
Financial Statement

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The 2023 Annual Report of the African Network of Adolescents and Young Persons Development (ANAYD) provides a comprehensive overview of our initiatives, impact, and strategic direction over the past year. Rooted in our commitment to empower adolescents and young people in their diversities, ANAYD has remained steadfast in addressing key issues affecting young people, including HIV prevention and treatment access, gender equality, economic empowerment, governance, and digital advocacy.

Furthermore, influencing policies and decisions, fostering more inclusiveness of AYPs in forums and platforms to amplify their voices, and strengthening capacity of health care providers to improve performance and quality of integrated health care service for adolescents and young people in their diversities.

This report highlights our achievements, challenges, and lessons learned while outlining our strategic priorities for the future. In 2023, ANAYD successfully implemented programs across multiple thematic areas, reaching millions of young people across Africa with health services, education, and advocacy platforms. Our partnerships with local, regional, and global stakeholders enabled us to drive policy influence, capacity-building initiatives, and grassroots-level impact.

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS OF 2023 INCLUDE:

  • • Strengthening HIV prevention, treatment, and PrEP accessibility among adolescents and young key populations.
  • • Expanding youth-friendly services and safe spaces for sexual and reproductive health education.
  • • Advocating for gender equality, youth leadership, and meaningful youth participation in governance.
  • • Utilizing digital platforms to amplify advocacy messages and mobilize young people for action.
  • • Enhancing data-driven programming and community-led monitoring for improved service delivery.

Despite facing funding constraints, policy limitations, and socio-economic challenges, ANAYD remained agile, leveraging strategic partnerships, data, and innovation to advance its mission. The lessons from 2023 reaffirm the need for youth-centered and evidence-based approaches in tackling emerging and persistent challenges affecting young people.

As we step into 2024, ANAYD remains committed to expanding its impact, advocating for inclusive policies, and ensuring that every young person—regardless of their background or circumstance—has access to the rights, opportunities, and support they need to thrive.

THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR'S NOTE

Closing another impactful year, I am pleased to present the 2023 Annual Report of the African Network of Adolescents and Young Persons Development (ANAYD). This report is more than a record of our activities; it is a reflection of our unwavering commitment to empowering young people, advancing public health, and advocating for the rights and well-being of adolescents and young persons in their diversities.

The past year has reinforced the importance of strategic partnerships, data-driven interventions, and youth-centered programming in addressing the challenges faced by young people across Africa. From prevention and treatment access to gender equality, economic empowerment, and digital advocacy, ANAYD has continued to work tirelessly to ensure that no young person is left behind.

I would like to express my deepest appreciation to our dedicated staff, volunteers, partners, donors, and stakeholders who have contributed to our successes in 2023. Your unwavering support has enabled us to expand our reach, strengthen our impact, and foster meaningful change in the lives of the communities we serve.

As we look ahead to 2024, we remain committed to scaling up our programs, leveraging innovation, and advocating for policies that create an enabling environment for all young people, regardless of their background or circumstances. We recognize that the challenges remain significant, but with collaboration, resilience, and a shared vision for a better future, we are confident that we can achieve even greater milestones in the years ahead.

On behalf of the ANAYD team, I thank you for your continued support, and I invite you to join us in building a healthier, more inclusive, and empowered future for young people across Africa.

Sincerely,
Haruna Aaron Sunday
Executive Director

Haruna Aaron Sunday, Executive Director ANAYD

Key Highlights

Community Impact

40,000+ Lives Touched

Successfully reached and impacted over 40,000 young people through our comprehensive programs.

Healthcare Programs

80% Success Rate

Achieved significant milestones in healthcare initiatives with improved success rates.

Community Engagement

150+ Events

Successfully organized and conducted over 150 community events and training sessions.

Resource Allocation

85% Program Efficiency

Maintained high efficiency in resource utilization with 85% of funds supporting direct program activities.

OUR TARGET BENEFICIARIES

ADOLESCENTS AND YOUNG PEOPLE

General population aged 10-24 years

ADOLESCENTS AND YOUNG WOMEN

Focusing on gender-specific health and empowerment needs

ADOLESCENTS AND YOUNG PEOPLE LIVING WITH HIV

(AYPLHIV)

ADOLESCENTS AND YOUNG PEOPLE LIVING WITH DISABILITY

(YPWD)

YOUNG FEMALE SEX WORKERS

(YFSW)

YOUNG MEN WHO HAVE SEX WITH MEN

(YMSM)

YOUNG PEOPLE WHO INJECT DRUGS

(YPWID)

YOUNG LGBTQI

Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, and Intersex

11,419

Male Beneficiaries

17,589

Female Beneficiaries

Our Inclusive Approach

In 2023, ANAYD continued to expand its reach to diverse populations of adolescents and young people, ensuring that our programs and services are accessible, inclusive, and responsive to the unique needs of each group. Our targeted approach allows us to address specific challenges faced by different populations while maintaining a holistic view of youth development.

Program Impact

Network Initiative to Improve Key Population-Friendly Public Healthcare Services in Nigeria

The African Network of Adolescents and Young Persons Development (ANAYD), with funding support from Initiative Sankofa d'Afrique de l'Ouest (ISDAO), implemented the Network Initiative to Improve Key Population-Friendly Public Healthcare Services in Nigeria project from November 2023 to February 2024. This four-month initiative was carried out in four states—Lagos, Anambra, Benue, Kaduna, and Rivers—and aimed to address barriers to healthcare access for adolescents and young people (AYPs) in their diversities, including HIV-prevalence states—Adolescents and Young Women (AGYW), Adolescents and Young People Living with HIV (AYPLHIV), Young Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, and Intersex (YLGBTQI+), and Young Persons with Disabilities (YPWD).

Objectives

  1. Promote access to non-discriminatory, youth-friendly, and integrated healthcare services for AYPs in their diversities.
  2. Strengthen the capacity of healthcare workers to deliver comprehensive and non-discriminatory services.
  3. Build alliances with key government stakeholders, health professionals, and youth organizations for sustained advocacy.

Key Activities

  • Engaged 55 stakeholders, including government agencies, health professionals, and youth advocates
  • Conducted advocacy visits to 15 government institutions
  • Trained 121 healthcare workers on providing youth-friendly services
  • Conducted 4 consultation meetings with 120 adolescents and young people
  • Reached 19 million people through social media campaign

Impact Highlights

  • Increased Awareness: Over 120 stakeholders trained to provide non-discriminatory healthcare services tailored to the needs of AYPs.
  • Stronger Alliances: Partnerships with 15 government institutions and key civil society organizations strengthened to sustain advocacy efforts.
  • Broad Outreach: The social media campaign engaged millions, amplifying the call for inclusive health services.
  • Healthcare Access: Trained healthcare workers began implementing non-stigmatizing and inclusive practices in eight healthcare facilities across the four states.

Important Figures

Stakeholders Engaged

55

Healthcare Workers Trained

121

Social Media Reach

19M

AYPs Consulted

120

Advocacy Visits

15

ICASA Participants

23

The project has laid the foundation for a more inclusive healthcare system for adolescents and young people in Nigeria. By addressing stigma, building capacity, and fostering alliances, the initiative has improved access to quality healthcare for key populations. Sustaining these efforts will require continuous collaboration among stakeholders, policy reform, and investment in youth-focused health initiatives.

Key Projects

ICASA 2023 CONFERENCE VIRTUAL HUB

The International Conference on AIDS and STIs in Africa (ICASA) 2023 was a beacon of hope and urgency, illuminating the critical battle against HIV/AIDS and other emerging diseases in Africa. This pivotal event, held in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, gathered leaders, activists, scientists, and communities to address the complexities of the region's health landscape and its impact on vulnerable populations.

Themed "AIDS is Not Over: Address Inequalities, Accelerate Inclusion, and Innovation," ICASA underscored the continued threat of AIDS and the imperative need to act decisively. Key objectives revolved around mainstreaming equity, reinforcing domestic financing and community response, addressing multiple health crises, and bolstering health systems to mitigate the impact of various diseases, including HIV/AIDS, COVID-19, Ebola, and Hepatitis.

The conference emphasized the invaluable role of communities in leading the fight against HIV/AIDS. It shed light on the dire consequences of diverting HIV resources to combat COVID-19, hindering progress in HIV response efforts. Yet, the call to action remained resolute - Africa cannot relent in striving for an AIDS-free future.

Virtual Hub

As part of efforts supporting communities to lead the journey to end AIDS in Africa, ANAYD hosted a virtual hub in Nigeria which allowed Adolescents and Young Persons (AYPs) in their diversities to join the conference virtually. Participants identified the vital roles that program ownership, advocacy and storytelling play in young people's efforts to contribute maximally to the fight against AIDS.

ICASA Virtual Hub participants ICASA Virtual Hub session

"Ultimately, ICASA 2023 was a rallying cry for collective action and solidarity in the fight against HIV/AIDS and emerging diseases. The resounding message echoed - through unity, innovation, and community-led initiatives, an AIDS-free Africa is an achievable reality."

YOUNG EMERGING LEADERS PROGRAMME (YEL)

The Young Emerging Leaders Programme (YEL) was a transformative and dynamic initiative spearheaded by GNP+ and Y+ Global and implemented in Nigeria by ANAYD. Designed to amplify the voices of young people living with or affected by HIV, the programme strengthened their capacity to engage in national and global decision-making platforms.

Over seven months (June to December 2023), three carefully selected young leaders—Emmanuel, Darington, and Joy—embarked on a journey of personal and professional growth through advocacy, training, and strategic engagement.

Programme Objectives

  • Equip YELs with knowledge and skills to influence decision-making processes at the global level
  • Strengthen their ability to advocate for key populations, young people living with HIV, and adolescents and young persons affected by HIV
  • Support meaningful engagement with stakeholders, policymakers, and institutions to achieve sustainable outcomes in HIV programming and SRHR advocacy

Key Achievements

  • Global Recognition: Emmanuel and Joy represented their communities on international platforms, ensuring the inclusion of young persons' voices in global HIV advocacy.
  • Community Impact: Through targeted campaigns and in-country advocacy, the YELs fostered greater awareness of SRHR and HIV prevention within their communities.
  • Skills Development: The YELs enhanced their technical and advocacy skills, empowering them to sustain their work beyond the programme's duration.

The Young Emerging Leaders Programme (YEL) has successfully empowered three Nigerian youth to advocate for HIV/AIDS awareness and SRHR on global platforms. By equipping them with the tools and knowledge to influence decision-making, the programme has set a precedent for future cohorts. Though concluded, the YELs remain steadfast in their commitment to fostering change within their communities and inspiring the next generation of advocates. The sustainability of such initiatives will rely heavily on strategic planning, increased funding, and continued mentorship.

ANAYD/EGPAF AP3 AYP SOCIAL NETWORK TESTING (SNT) PROJECT

The African Network of Adolescents and Young People Development (ANAYD), in partnership with the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation (EGPAF), convened a stakeholders' engagement meeting to introduce the Social Network Testing (SNT) project under the AP3 AYP initiative. The meeting aimed to discuss the implementation strategy, stakeholder roles, and key priorities for the project within Lagos State. The engagement provided an avenue for alignment of efforts and the establishment of collaborative partnerships for successful project execution.

Objectives

  • To introduce the ANAYD/EGPAF AP3 AYP Social Network Testing (SNT) Project.
  • To foster collaboration among stakeholders and align priorities for effective project implementation.
  • To review lessons learned from the STAR III Project and explore strategies for scaling up Social and Sexual Network Testing among Adolescents and Young People (AYP).
  • To discuss innovative approaches to HIV self-testing (HIVST) and PrEP distribution among target populations in Lagos State.

STAR III Project Achievements

ANAYD provided an in-depth review of the STAR III Project, which served as a foundation for the SNT initiative. Key outcomes included:

  • 18,500 individuals reached with HIV self-testing kits
  • 118 reactive cases confirmed positive and successfully linked to care
  • 15,701 condoms and lubricants distributed, coupled with risk reduction counseling
  • 748 clients enrolled on PrEP for HIV prevention

Key Actions for the SNT Project

  • Expanding social and sexual network testing among AYP in Alimosho, Mushin, and Ifako-Ijaiye LCAs
  • Enhancing digital outreach and demand creation for HIVST and PrEP
  • Aligning with state priorities and engaging local partners to ensure targeted interventions

SOCIAL MEDIA IMPACT

19 Million

Social Media Reach

Education Saves Lives Social Media Campaign

The Education Saves Lives Campaign launched by ANAYD with UNESCO Nigeria in 2023 is a powerful initiative designed to advocate for the well-being of adolescents and youth in Nigeria. It raises awareness about the importance of education in addressing pressing global challenges such as public health, gender equality, and the well-being of youth, particularly in Nigeria.

The campaign focused on the critical role that education plays in saving lives, with a particular emphasis on empowering young people and adolescents. It aimed to promote awareness of how education can be a tool for health education, reducing maternal mortality, improving family planning, combating HIV/AIDS, and empowering individuals to make informed health decisions.

Campaign Highlights

  • Platform: Strategic use of Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter
  • Engagement: Stakeholders, educators, and influencers participated
  • Hashtags: #EducationSavesLives and #Nigeria amplified the message

Campaign Results

  • Over 4.5 million reach across social media platforms
  • High levels of engagement including mentions, shares, likes
  • Strong platform for advocacy and mobilization

Key Takeaways

The 2023 Education Saves Lives campaign reaffirmed the essential link between education and health outcomes, underscoring that access to education is not just about academic success but also about improving the quality of life for individuals and communities.

Social Media Impact Comparison Across Platforms

Twitter
Facebook
Instagram
TikTok
Likes
Comments
Shares

KEY LESSONS IN 2023

The implementation of various programs and initiatives in 2023 provided valuable insights that will guide future interventions. These lessons highlight key challenges, successes, and areas for improvement in advancing the rights, health, and well-being of adolescents and young persons in their diversities.

1 Strengthening Multi-Sectoral Collaboration

One of the most impactful takeaways was the importance of collaboration between governmental agencies, civil society organizations, and international partners. Programs that integrated efforts from multiple stakeholders—such as NACA, the Federal Ministry of Health (FMOH), and UNAIDS—proved to be more effective, especially in service delivery and advocacy. Going forward, stronger coordination mechanisms and structured engagement strategies with key stakeholders will be essential in sustaining progress.

2 Community-Led Approaches Yield Greater Impact

The engagement of adolescents and young people (AYP) in program design, implementation, and advocacy significantly increased ownership and uptake of services. Community-led monitoring, peer-led sensitization, and youth-friendly services proved to be critical drivers in increasing demand for HIV testing, treatment adherence, and sexual and reproductive health services. Future programs will further prioritize peer-driven interventions and capacity building for young advocates to enhance meaningful participation.

3 Digital Platforms as a Game Changer

The use of social media, digital campaigns, and online advocacy played a pivotal role in reaching and engaging young people, particularly through Twitter campaigns like Education Saves Lives and online demand creation for HIV Self-Testing (HIVST). However, digital literacy gaps and accessibility issues among marginalized groups, including young persons with disabilities (YPWD), were identified as barriers. There is a need to develop inclusive digital strategies and expand multilingual content to ensure broader reach.

4 Addressing Structural Barriers to Healthcare Access

Despite significant progress, stigma, discrimination, and policy limitations continue to hinder access to health services, particularly for key populations (KP), young men who have sex with men (YMSM), and young female sex workers (YFSW). Some beneficiaries reported fear of being identified and stigmatized, preventing them from seeking services. Strengthening safe spaces, confidentiality protocols, and policy advocacy remains essential in ensuring that AYP, regardless of background, have unrestricted access to healthcare.

5 The Need for Sustainable Funding Models

Financial constraints remain a major challenge, with heavy reliance on donor funding limiting the long-term sustainability of programs. While initiatives like Demand Side Financing (DSF) for HIVST demonstrated success, there is an urgent need to diversify funding streams through private sector engagement, government buy-in, and innovative financing mechanisms such as social enterprises and community-led funding models.

6 Integration of Mental Health Support in HIV and SRHR Services

The increasing demand for mental health support among AYP highlighted the interconnection between mental health and health-seeking behavior. Adolescents and young people living with HIV (AYPLHIV) expressed challenges related to treatment fatigue, depression, and social isolation. While psychosocial support services were incorporated into some programs, a more structured and accessible mental health framework is needed, including counseling services, psychosocial support groups, and awareness campaigns on mental well-being.

7 Leveraging Advocacy to Drive Policy Change

Policy engagement efforts throughout 2023 reinforced the power of strategic advocacy in influencing policy reforms. Through platforms like the National Prevention Technical Working Group (NPTWG) and Global Fund dialogues, young advocates successfully contributed to discussions on PrEP access, HIV prevention, and gender-responsive policies. However, advocacy efforts must be sustained and scaled up to push for policy implementation and accountability at both state and national levels.

8 Tailored Approaches for Reaching Underrepresented Groups

Certain groups, including young persons with disabilities (YPWD), adolescents aged 10-14 years, remain underserved due to service accessibility challenges and cultural stigmatization. Lessons from the Social Network Testing (SNT) approach highlighted the effectiveness of targeted, community-specific strategies in reaching hidden populations. Future interventions must integrate more data-driven, age-sensitive, and disability-inclusive programming to ensure that no group is left behind.

In looking forward to 2024, ANAYD remains committed to leveraging these insights to enhance program delivery, foster meaningful youth engagement, and advocate for policies that create an enabling environment for all young people, regardless of their background or circumstances.

Financial Statement

In 2023, ANAYD.org maintained strong financial health, with a focus on maximizing program impact while ensuring operational sustainability. Our financial management practices prioritize transparency, accountability, and efficient resource allocation to achieve our mission of improving the lives of adolescents and young people across Africa.

Total Revenue

₦50,488,197

Primarily from donations and grants, with a small portion from other income sources.

Total Expenditure

₦50,257,083

Primarily office expenditure, with smaller allocations for depreciation and audit fees.

Surplus

₦231,114

Representing a positive balance that will be reinvested in our programs.

Financial Outlook for 2024

Based on our financial performance in 2023 and secured funding commitments, we project continued growth in 2024. We aim to increase our program funding while maintaining administrative costs at current levels. This will allow us to expand our reach and impact across more communities in Africa, particularly focusing on scaling up our successful HIV/AIDS programs and digital initiatives.