Evaluation summary – POUVOIR project: improving the sexual and reproductive health and rights of sex workers in Côte d’Ivoire

In Côte d’Ivoire, the POUVOIR project, led by Solthis, aimed to improve the sexual and reproductive health and rights of cisgender and transgender sex workers by empowering them to take action on issues affecting their health and environment. Implemented in four health districts in the municipalities of Yopougon and Abobo, the project expanded the range of services beyond HIV prevention, notably by incorporating family planning, cervical cancer screening and gender-based violence prevention.

The final evaluation highlights progress in access to sexual and reproductive health services, as well as a better understanding among sex workers of their bodies, needs and rights. More than 400 stakeholders also received training, helping to change the practices of partner organisations and healthcare professionals. This integrated approach, grounded in bodily autonomy and the strengthening of individual agency, has the potential to be replicated in other programmes combining the fight against HIV with sexual and reproductive health.