# Leveraging global tools for adolescent and youth health planning and programming: process and lessons learnt from Madagascar

## TL;DR

Madagascar created a youth health plan using global tools, showing how countries can apply international guidelines to improve adolescent health.

## Contribution

Demonstrates practical application of global adolescent health frameworks in national planning.

## Key findings

- High rates of adolescent fertility, early marriage, and substance abuse were identified as major challenges.
- Using GAMA indicators with youth input led to a more inclusive and comprehensive health strategy.
- The process emphasized the importance of data, collaboration, and youth involvement in health planning.

## Abstract

Madagascar, with a significant proportion of its population aged 10–24 years, has developed a comprehensive National Strategic Plan for Adolescent and Youth Health (2025–2030) to improve adolescent and youth health and well-being. This process applied the second edition of Accelerated Action for the Health of Adolescents (AA-HA!) guidance and the Global Action for Measurement of Adolescent Health (GAMA)-recommended indicators to ensure an evidence-based approach. Moving beyond the traditional focus on sexual and reproductive health, the strategy adopted a multi-sectoral approach that involved government ministries, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and youth associations, among other stakeholders. Key steps included stakeholder engagement, establishing a steering committee, mapping and analyzing data for GAMA-recommended indicators, assessing health needs, reviewing policies, and setting priorities through participatory, data-driven methods. Findings revealed major challenges, including high rates of adolescent fertility and early marriage, thinness among adolescent girls, and substance abuse. Integrating GAMA-recommended indicators with adolescent perspectives provided a holistic view of health needs, enabling the development of an inclusive strategic plan. Lessons learned highlight the importance of robust data use, multi-sectoral collaboration, and active youth involvement in planning and programming. Madagascar’s experience demonstrated that applying AA-HA! guidance and GAMA-recommended indicators is essential for a comprehensive approach to adolescent and youth health planning and programming. This process identified real needs and informed evidence-based strategies, reinforcing the value of inclusive, data-driven planning for improving health outcomes among adolescents and youth.

Main findings: Madagascar developed a comprehensive National Strategic Plan for Adolescent and Youth Health for 2025–2030 using the global guidance on Accelerated Action for the Health of Adolescents and the Global Action for Measurement of Adolescent Health indicators.Added knowledge: This experience shows how global frameworks for adolescent and youth health can be effectively applied at country level to create holistic strategies.Global health impact for policy and action: Madagascar’s approach provides a replicable model for countries aiming to strengthen adolescent and youth health planning.

Main findings: Madagascar developed a comprehensive National Strategic Plan for Adolescent and Youth Health for 2025–2030 using the global guidance on Accelerated Action for the Health of Adolescents and the Global Action for Measurement of Adolescent Health indicators.

Added knowledge: This experience shows how global frameworks for adolescent and youth health can be effectively applied at country level to create holistic strategies.

Global health impact for policy and action: Madagascar’s approach provides a replicable model for countries aiming to strengthen adolescent and youth health planning.