MADAGASCAR: Mentoring Guide for Midwives Validated
Multiple media outlets on 5 September reported that the first mentoring guide for midwives was validated at a UNFPA-supported workshop in Antananarivo. The mentoring guide is the second of its kind in Africa, and has been developed to support mentors in their efforts to enhance the skills of young midwives. Maternal mortality is a major challenge in Madagascar. Every day 10 Malagasy women die from complications related to pregnancy or childbirth, and so the fight against maternal mortality remains a key priority for UNFPA. Read in French: Les Nouvelles, La Gazette, Newsmada, Midi Madagasikara
MADAGASCAR: Gender, Peace and Security: An Action Plan for Resolution 1325
Les Nouvelles on 5 September reported that nearly one hundred participants gathered at the Hotel Colbert to develop a National Action plan on Gender, Peace and Security in Madagascar. Implementation of Resolution 1325 is also included in the SADC implementation process. To ensure the continuity of the process; the UN, through UNFPA, has provided technical and financial support. Read in French: Les Nouvelles
MADAGASCAR: Fistula Occurrence High
Agence France Presse on 22 August published a piece on the occurrence of fistula in Madagascar. UNFPA’s Edwige Ravaomanana is quoted saying, “It is really a problem of poverty…It's also because women can't go to a (clinic). Maybe because of the distance, maybe because they don't know… It's also the tradition. Starting from 18, they are considered old. At 30, a woman can already have 10 children." According to UNFPA data, Madagascar, one of the world's poorest countries, accounts for 2,000 of the more than 50,000 new fistula cases each year around the globe. Widespread fistula here is also blamed on early pregnancy, which is very common in Madagascar. Until 2011 only two doctors in the country could perform the operation. Thanks to a 300,000-euro campaign by the health ministry and the UNFPA, 14 more have been trained.
MADAGASCAR: Little Help for Difficult Pregnancies
News 24 on 22 August reported that in Madagascar, each year, about 2,000 new fistula cases are reported. Until 2011, only two doctors on Madagascar could perform the operation. The Health Ministry and UNFPA had trained 14 doctors and performed 106 operations during the first national campaign to eradicate obstetric fistula. Alphonsina Zara was one of them. She was repaired after suffering from fistula for 14 years. Read in English: News24
MADAGASCAR: Using SMS to Prevent Maternal Deaths
Multiple media outlets reported on 20-21 June that the Ministry of Public Health, UNFPA Madagascar and TELMA (Malagasy Telecommunications Company) via its Foundation launched the Short Message Service (SMS) project to curb maternal mortality. This project will be implemented in four rural districts. The objective of this two-year project is to use SMS for the monitoring of maternal and neonatal mortality as well as the stock level of essential reproductive medicines and contraceptives. Using SMS can provide rapid and appropriate response to maternal and neonatal deaths. A designated person will send all SMS to the central Ministry of Public Health immediately after each death and every month for reproductive health commodities. Read in French: Midi Madagasikara, La Gazette, newsmada and Africareview
MADAGASCAR: Using Facebook to Raise Awareness of Youth
Multiple media outlets reported 19-20 June that last week, Malagasy Ministry of Youth and Leisure and UNFPA Madagascar launched Tanora Garan’teen, a virtual network for young people via Facebook. Tanora Garan’teen aims to raise young people’s awareness on adolescent and youth reproductive health issues by using Facebook. The network also aims to reinforce peer educator actions. A group of 20 peer educators from all over the country will train in life skills to animate the network. Read in French: La Gazette, Midi Madagasikara, L’observateur and L’Express
GLOBAL: CONTINUING COVERAGE ON WORLD OF 7 BILLION
BOLIVIA: Los Tiempos on 7 November dedicated a three-page report on the world of 7 billion. The report used UNFPA and UN data. Read in Spanish: Los Tiempos
CONGO (BRAZZAVILLE): Les Depeches de Brazzaville, DRTV, Tele-Congo, MN TV, Congo-site reported on 11 November on an exhibit jointly organized by UNFPA, the Education Ministry, and the UNESCO Congolese Commission of 1,000 drawings and thoughts of 5-11 years old children on a better world for 7 billion inhabitants, as part of UNFPA 7 Billion Campaign. UNFPA Representative David Lawson proposed a 4-point initiative to the national authorities to institute sustainable development as an integral part of primary and secondary education. Mr. Lawson also said, "Children’s thoughts are imaginative and creative and should inspire adults. We are pleased that children contribute to a debate too often limited to adults. Everyone has a voice to shape your future world." Sponsors included the private sector and the US Embassy. Watch in French: Daily Motion Read in French: Congo-site, Congo-site, Brazzaville
Le Souverain published on 11 November the message by UNFPA Representative David Lawson to Congolese populations through an audio-video communication on 31 October on the occasion of the world reaching 7 billion inhabitants. In his message Mr. Lawson calls on populations to be responsibility and take action, including youth, and to act in favour of the most vulnerable.
ETHIOPIA: Fana Broadcasting Corporate on 9 November reported that a ceremony organized today at Mekele Hospital here in Mekele marked the world population reaching 7 billion. The baby born at the hospital on 31 October, the day the world population supposedly hit the 7 billion mark, was given a special prize of a gold necklace with the inscription of ‘7 billion,’ an Ethiopian Government bond, and baby wear.
Making a remark on the occasion Mr. Benoit Kalasa, Country Representative of the United Nations Population Fund, said that the special event marked the end of the campaign his organization had been undertaking together with various stakeholders since July 11 to “highlight the challenges, opportunities and actions that will shape our common future in the context of the world population reaching 7 billion on October 31.”
Globally, the population has doubled since 1968 and grown by almost 40 per cent since reaching 5 billion in 1987. Growth will continue at least until mid-century despite dramatic declines in the average number of children per woman, according to the UN Population Division. Nearly all of this population growth–97 of every 100 people–is occurring in less developed countries. Gaps between rich and poor are growing. And more people than ever are vulnerable to food insecurity, water shortages and weather-related disasters. Meanwhile, many rich and middle-income countries are concerned about low fertility, declining populations and ageing.
The World at 7 Billion Campaign promoted seven key messages namely reducing poverty and inequality; unleashing the power of women and girls; investing in young people; ensuring reproductive health and rights; environmental sustainability; aging populations; and urban growth. The campaign has been undertaken with a number of media and advocacy activities.
It was disclosed that the prize giving ceremony today to the first baby born at Mekele Hospital represents a symbolic gesture of recognizing one of the 7th billion babies in Ethiopia born at health institutions. A similar ceremony was organized in Addis Ababa last week and ceremonies will also be held in Afar, Amhara, and SNNPR regions to recognize and give prize to the 7th billion babies born first in each region.
MADAGASCAR: La Vérité on 7 November reported that the UNFPA Tuléar sub-office organised a 7 billion campaign activity which involved a conference and open day regarding the reproductive health, social and economic development of young people. An estimate of 150 people attended the conference and 70 percent of them were young people. The aim of the open day was to inform the public about UNFPA’s mission and goals. The event also involved a film sensitizing young people about obstetric fistula and causes for example early marriages and pregnancies. The audience was very interested and asked many questions.
L’Express on 8 November reported that Madagascar must invest more in young women in the world of 7 billion. Jozef Maerien, UNFPA Madagascar Deputy Representative talked about the challenges facing young women in a world of seven billion people. He highlighted that the development of health services and education in Madagascar must be is a priority. Madagascar should improve its efforts to facilitate access to these services especially for young women. Read in French: L’Express
MEXICO: Reforma, Foro TV, NSS Oaxaca, El Universal, Canal Once TV, Farmacia Especializadas, Puebla On Line, Mi Morelia, and Enfoque Radio Noticias from 31 October to 7 November reported that the world reached the 7 billion population milestone and also highlighted the implications for the world, the region and also for México. In all cases the media reported on the content of the State of the State of World Population Report for 2011 “People and possibilities in a world of 7 billion.” Read in Spanish: Reforma, Foro TV, NSS Oaxaca, El Universal, Canal Once TV, Farmacia Especializadas, Puebla On Line, Mi Morelia, and Enfoque Radio Noticias
CNN en Español on 1 November broadcast an interview with well-known journalist Carmen Aristegui from CNN and Mr. Diego Palacios Jaramillo, UNFPA Mexico Representative, discussing the implications of having reached the 7 billion mark. Mr. Palacios emphasized that reaching this milestone offers unprecedented challenges and opportunities to humanity. Palacios mentioned that the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) provides a clear framework to address the issues resulting from the global, regional and national population trends. Palacios emphasized the need to adopt public policies to empower women and girls allowing them the possibility to participate in their societies and economies on equal footing with men and to invest in young people to enhance their quality of life, allowing opportunities for their integral development and facilitating their decision regarding the timing and spacing of pregnancies and births. He mentioned that these are key cost effective measures to deal with the growing population and to ensure development is based on justice, human rights, equal opportunities and better quality of life for all. Palacios reiterated that the current number of young-people is the highest in history and therefore their present and future needs in education, sexual and reproductive health and access to employment, must be met as a matter of priority by all countries but especially by the developing ones. He also mentioned that the UN Population Division projection (medium variant) that estimates a world population of 9.3 billion people by 2050 has implicit the assumption of continued support to countries in which unmet demand for family planning is highest such as in the Sub-Saharan Africa. View in Spanish: CNN en Espanol
PARAGUAY: The journalist César González Páez wrote in his weekly column, published in the newspaper Ultima Hora, on 7 November on the impact of the 7 billion. He noted that the estimate has been made by the UNFPA and thanks to the tool shared by the BBC, he has found that he is the world’s 2,556,323,657 inhabitant. Read in Spanish: Última Hora - edición impresa.
We Magazine, and ABC Colour, published on 6 November a brief note on the birth of the child Nargis, born at the hospital in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh region of India, who is considered the seven billionth inhabitant, according to Plan International. It also published remarks that the world has arrived, on 31 October at this number, as calculated by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA). Read in Spanish: Revista Nosotras
TOGO: Togo Presse on 3 November covered the celebrations of the arrival of the symbolic 7 billionth baby of Togo as the world celebrated the milestone of reaching 7 billion inhabitants on 31 October. The welcoming ceremony of the symbolic Togolese 7B baby, a girl, born at 4:34am in the early hours of 31 October, took place in the 3rd largest health center in Lomé. Present at the ceremony were the Minister of Health, Prof. Kondi Charles Agba, accompanied by his colleague from the Ministry of Planning, Development and Territorial Administrative, Mme. Dédé Ahoéfa Ekoué as well as the Representative of UNFPA Togo, Mme. Cécile Mukarubuga. The baby girl, born to proud parents, Mr. Rémi Lagbaj and Mrs. Adja Oukpane, weighing 3.26kg at birth, received financial donations from Minister Ekoué and Ms. Mukarubuga and a symbolic gift from Minister Agba.
Minister Ekoué, while wishing that Little Oukpane grows up to be a leader and development actor, as she symbolizes female dynamism, expressed heartfelt gratitude and appreciation to the staff of the hospital for their participation and enthusiasm in giving this event the special connotation.
Minister Agba in his welcoming remarks emphasized that “only through important investments in the health and education sectors and especially in favour of women and young girls can the vicious cycles (of discrimination and violence) be broken”. The Minister concluded by expressing appreciation to UNFPA for “the unrelenting efforts in seeking to ameliorate the conditions of the vulnerable population.”
UGANDA: The Independent on 7 November published an article on the 7 billion and quoted UNFPA, "There’s nothing unique about an unplanned baby “surprising” her unprepared parents, especially in Uganda where pregnancy among young unmarried girls in a school is something of a norm. But Aheebwa is unique in one way. She shares her birthday with the world’s seven billionth baby, according to the United Nations Population Agency (UNFPA), a global milestone that has drawn attention to the rapid growth of the world’s population, and concern about the earth’s capacity to provide a decent living for all of them." Read in English: The Independent
MADAGASCAR: Integration of population health in marine conservation
Midi Madagasikara on 12 November and La Verite on 11 November reported that the Seventh Western Indian Ocean Marine Science Association (WIOMSA) Scientific Symposium was held in Mombasa, Kenya from 24-29 October. During this symposium, a workshop was organized by the NGO Blue Ventures, in partnership with UNFPA on 28 October. The goal of this workshop was to inform and inspire marine conservation practitioners from every part of the Western Indian Ocean to adopt effective, evidence based integrated PHE (Population, Health and Environment) approaches in their regions. Blue Ventures and UNFPA have worked together since 2010 to promote integrated population, health and environment approaches in South West of Madagascar. Read in French: Midi Madagasikara
UNITED STATES: Madagascar Women Seek to Slow Population Growth
Medical News on 14 October published an IRIN report on women’s efforts to curb population growth in Madagascar. "According to UNFPA, the percentage of women using contraceptives rose by 11 per cent between 2004 and 2009 to reach 29 percent. Despite this increase, birth control is still not always available, even in urban areas, and one in four births occurs less than 24 months after the preceding one." Read in English: Medical News
GLOBAL: CONTINUING COVERAGE ON INTERNATIONAL YOUTH DAY/ INTERNATIONAL YOUTH YEAR
GUATEMALA: Reportaje De reported on a press conference on 11 August, where Leonor Calderón, national representative of the United Nations Population Fund and Adriano Gonzalez, national representative of the United Nations Fund for Children, highlighted the urgency of developing public policies that respond to the human rights of young people and promote their full exercise of citizenship. They recalled that the theme of International Youth Year was "Dialogue and Mutual Understanding," and that the Secretary General of the United Nations called for the building of dialogue and understanding between young people from different cultures, ideologies and between generations to build a world with peace. Read in Spanish: Reportaje De
GUATEMALA: El Periódico reported on 16 August on a group of organizations marking the end of the International Year of Youth. Guatemala is in its "demographic dividend," according to Leonor Calderón, of the UN Population Fund, UNFPA. “It's a great opportunity to have the largest working population that could lead the country to the path of development or, if they are not promoted through education and social policies-a ‘time bomb.’” Read in Spanish: El Periódico
LAO PEOPLE'S DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC: KPL News, Lao Voices reported on 16 August that around 60 young males and females between 16 and 24 years old, from across the capital, gathered in Vientiane to celebrate International Youth Day (IYD) globally observed on August 12. The event saw participation from the Burnet Institute, Care International, Friends International, Lao National Network of People Living with HIV/AIDS, Purple Sky Network, Save the Children Norway, UNIAP, UNICEF, UNFPA, UNODC, Vientiane Youth Centre for Health and Development, the World Bank and support from Vientiane College. Read in English: Lao Voices
MADAGASCAR: Several newspapers reported on 16 August and 20 August on the national celebration of International Youth Day organized by the Ministry of Youth with the financial contribution of UNFPA and other international NGOs. Activities were undertaken during this event including a carnival, exhibitions with the participation of partners, sports, a radio competition, sensitization on adolescent reproductive health, and voluntary HIV testing. In addition, a conference on the theme: “Dialogue and Mutual Understanding” was held in which approximately 70 young people attended.
VENEZUELA: Multiple media outlets reported on 18 August on a press conference commemorating the conclusion of International Youth Year. Mr. Jorge Gonzalez Caro, assistant representative of UNFPA Venezuela’s country office pointed out that Venezuela has a "demographic bonus" - the majority of the population is of productive age, which presents a unique opportunity. He invited the government, decision makers and private sector to strengthen dialogue and public policies to seize the possibilities and potentials for development. UNFPA ‘s assistant representative presented data about a new typology of problems related to youth, and he also said that the need to improve access to education, health services, suitable employment for young people and modern contraceptive methods must be considered a major priority for Venezuela. Read in Spanish: El Nacional
YEMEN: Multiple media outlets reported on 13 to 16 August on the celebration of Youth International Day (YID) that was organized by For All Foundation in cooperation of Save the Children and support of UNFPA. Under the logo “Our Year…Our Voice”, the celebration took place in Hodeidah Governorate with participation of 40 young people who came from different governorates. More in Arabic: Saba Net
MADAGASCAR: Youth Summit Resolutions
La Vérité reported on 13 August on the resolutions from the Youth Summit, held in New York, presented by two young delegates from Madagascar. UNFPA and UNICEF jointly financed the event. During this summit, the booklet on “Malagasy Youth: Facts and Figures” was launched. This booklet mentioned the general situation of youth and adolescents in Madagascar. The findings will facilitate planning and programming actions related to youth. Read in French: La Vérité
MADAGASCAR: UNFPA Organizes Workshop on Gender-Based Violence
Midi Madagasikara reported on 14 June that UNFPA organized a three-day workshop on gender-based violence (GBV). The workshop was attended by approximately 100 participants from UN agencies, various technical departments, NGOs and civil society. The workshop is aimed to the elaboration of a joint framework intervention facing to GBV response. More actions to sensitize population at all levels must be developed and monitoring mechanisms implemented to reduce GBV. Read in French: Midi-Madagasikara
MADAGASCAR: Workshop to Develop Mechanism Against Gender-Based Violence
Midi Madagasikara, La Gazette, L’Express and La Verite reported on 7-9 June that a workshop on gender-based violence (GBV) was organized by the UN system in collaboration with the Ministry of Population and Social Affairs from 8 to 10 June. UNFPA is the lead agency for this activity and is financing the workshop. Three studies were presented during this workshop: an assessment of the monitoring mechanisms to reduce GBV; a study on women’s and girl’s vulnerability related to STD/HIV/AIDS; and a situation analysis of GBV in three main towns (Antsiranana, Toamasina and Toliara). The workshop is part of an effort to develop a joint UN intervention mechanism to monitor and follow-up actions against GBV. Read in French: La Gazette
MADAGASCAR: Training Of Trainers On Minimum Initial Service Package (MISP) for Reproductive Health
Les Nouvelles reported on 6 June that in collaboration with FISA, an NGO affiliated with IPPF, a series of trainings of three weeks duration spread over August 2010 to May 2011, has been financed by UNFPA, and effected to implement the MISP/RH in 22 regions. The 125 participants’ capacity in taking care RH in crisis situation was reinforced during these trainings. The last training focused on technical experiences exchanges was held from 29-21 May, which conducted to the development of a MISP/RH. This MISP/RH proposal will be included in the national contingency plan.
MADAGASCAR: Launch Of National Campaign To End Obstetric Fistula
Multiple media outlets reported on 25 May – 3 June that to support the Ministry of Health, UNFPA launched a national campaign to eradicate fistula in seven regions located in the south and southeast of the country. The official launch was held in Toliary in the southwest. This campaign will last one month in which 110 fistula survivors, identified from the seven regions, will be repaired. UNFPA funding will cover medicines, treatment of fistula patients, including surgery, and their transport to Toliary, and training of national doctors in fistula repair. The training is undertaken by renowned international experts in fistula repair.
MADAGASCAR: Traditional Leaders Trained on Gender-Based Violence
Madamatin reported on 1 June that a three-day workshop was held in Toliary to train 25 traditional leaders from two southern regions of Madagascar in the use of gender-based violence education and communication materials. This workshop is funded by UNFPA and is the second of a series aimed at strengthening the traditional leaders’ capacity to conduct sensitization activities to promote gender. During the workshop, traditional leaders were trained to use a booklet on women victims of gender-based violence, a flip chart (boîte à images) on women’s rights and a film telling the stories of traditional leaders involved in the promotion of gender equity.
MADAGASCAR: Immunization Campaign Against Maternal and Neonatal Tetanus
Midi Madagaskaria reported on 1 June that UNFPA, WHO, and UNICEF, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, launched a national immunization campaign aimed at eradicating maternal and neonatal tetanus throughout the country by 2012. Overall, 1.6 million women of reproductive age are targeted nationwide. The first phase of the campaign is implemented in the 39 health districts most at risk located in 17 out of 22 regions. It will last one week and will be followed by two others scheduled to take place in July 2011 and January 2012. The campaign is funded by a $802,000 donation from the Pampers Company.
MADAGASCAR: UNFPA Supports Reproductive Health Commodities Security for Ministry of Health
La Verite reported on 16 April that as part of its support to the Ministry of Health, through the Global Programme for Reproductive Health Commodities, UNFPA, in collaboration with UNICEF, conducted in December 2010 an assessment of logistics system management of health drugs including reproductive health commodities. The objective of the study that was conducted in the 22 regions was to identify bottlenecks in order to ensure adequate supplies of pharmacies of districts and health facilities. The study covered 183 pharmacies of districts, and private pharmacies. The estimated cost of the study was $112,000 including $70,000 paid by UNFPA and $42,000 for UNICEF. The results of the study showed an insufficient supply of vaccines and medicines for maternal health supplies, such as individual delivery kits and caesarean section operation drugs.
MADGASCAR: UNFPA Supports Reproductive Health Commodities Security for Ministry of Health
La Verite reported on 16 April that as part of its support to the Ministry of Health, through the Global Programme for Reproductive Health Commodities, UNFPA, in collaboration with UNICEF, conducted in December 2010 an assessment of logistics system management of health drugs including reproductive health commodities. The objective of the study that was conducted in the 22 regions was to identify bottlenecks in order to ensure adequate supplies of pharmacies of districts and health facilities. The study covered 183 pharmacies of districts, and private pharmacies. The estimated cost of the study was $112,000 including $70,000 paid by UNFPA and $42,000 for UNICEF. The results of the study showed an insufficient supply of vaccines and medicines for maternal health supplies, such as individual delivery kits and caesarean section operation drugs.
MADAGASCAR: A Poor Country Gets Poorer
IRIN reported on 18 March that Madagascar, one of the world's poorest countries, has lost about $400 million in donor support since the 17 March 2009 coup in which Andry Rajoelina, with the support of the military, deposed President Marc Ravalomanana. The article noted that a joint survey by WHO, UNICEF, and UNFPA found assisted births fell from 51 per cent in 2006 to 44 per cent in 2009, and more than half the people living in the drought-prone south reported that financial difficulties prevented them from visiting clinics. Read: IRIN
GLOBAL: COVERAGE ON INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY
IPS reported on 7 March that in a statement marking the 100th anniversary of International Women’s Day, Babatunde Osotimehin, Executive Director of UNFPA, said the international community must promote the rights of women "to unleash the full potential of half the world’s population." Read: IPS
BANGLADESH: BDNews24 reported on 7 March that UNFPA has renewed its commitment to work with governments and civil society to achieve universal access to education and reproductive health by 2015. On the occasion of International Women's Day, UNFPA Executive Director Babatunde Osotimehin said, "As the world approaches a population of seven billion, it's high time to unleash the full potential of half the world's population — women.” Read: BDNews24
The News Today reported on 9 March that speakers at a discussion in Dhaka have urged civil society, NGOs and the government to help provide equal opportunity to women in the interest of national progress and development. They also called upon the government to put women and children’s rights and health issues high on its agenda. The local NGO “Amra Kuri,” in collaboration with UNFPA, organized the programme on the occasion of International Women’s Day 2011 at the Shishu Academy. Read: The News Today
BELARUS: Naviny.by and Open.by reported on 8 March on International Women’s Day. To mark the day, the National Statistic Committee compiled a portrait of a modern Belarusian Woman, and famous people shared their image of that figure. Census data and other statistical information were used to prepare the portrait. According to the Statistical Committee, the modern Belarusian woman is 42 years old, married with children, has higher or specialized secondary education, Belarusian nationality, considers Belarusian her native language and uses Russian in her everyday life. UNFPA Progamme Analyst Tatyana Haplichnik said, “The modern Belarusian woman is a mother and wife, and is an expert in her profession. Regardless of this working load, she manages to look so perfect that even women’s, not only men’s, heads are spinning from the number of beautiful women outside. By 21 she knows several foreign languages, has a higher education degree and a profession, and after 60 she starts mastering her computer skills and yoga, often combining this with work and grandchildren.” Read in Russian: Naviny.by and Open.by
CONGO (BRAZZAVILLE): Congo-site reported on 13 March on a donation made by the UN female workers in Congo to midwives in two major hospitals in Brazzaville on the occasion of International Women's Day. Led by the UNICEF Representative, a UN delegation donated medical equipment to facilitate the midwives work. A member of the delegation, UNFPA’s Dr. Jeannette Biboussi, said, "Midwives are central to our fight against maternal mortality and we hope that this donation will enhance their work in our collective goal to achieve MDG5." Read in French: Congo-site
DRTV and Canal Benediction broadcast on 8 March the UNFPA Executive Director's message delivered by Congo Resident Representative David Lawson on the occasion of International Women's Day. Les Depeches de Brazzaville also reported on the celebrations of World Women's Day in Brazzaville. While most celebrations were decentralized to the countryside, the capital city hosted a number of festivities focused on women, where the message by Dr. Babatunde Osotimehin, UNFPA Executive Director for the occasion was delivered. Read in French: Les Depeches de Brazzaville
Tele-Congo, DRTV and Les Depeches de Brazzaville reported on 8 March on the annual march by Congolese women in support of women's rights in Ewo, the capital city of the Cuvette Ouest Province in Western Congo. The march was led by First Lady Antoinette Sassou Nguesso, Women's Affairs Minister Jeanne Leckoumba Loumeto Pombo, and UNFPA Representative David Lawson. The theme of the march was "Investing in women and girls" Watch in French: Tele-Congo
EL SALVADOR: Diario Co-Latino reported on 8 March on the message of UNFPA Executive Director Babatunde Osotimehin on International Women's Day 2011. Read in Spanish: Diario Co-Latino
ETHIOPIA: Multiple media outlets reported on 8 March on events marking International Women’s Day in Ethiopia and around the world, noting that Babatunde Osotimehin, Executive Director of UNFPA, reaffirmed UNFPA’s commitment to work with governments and civil society organizations to achieve universal access to education and reproductive health by 2015. Read: Walta Information Centre
GHANA: GNA reported on 9 March that UNFPA Gender Officer Miriam R. Iddrisu called for an end to inhuman cultural practices such as female genital mutilation, widowhood rites and forceful marriages in Ghana. She said the country's laws did not favour such practices and that there is a need to prosecute those who engage in such acts to serve as a deterrent. Ms. Iddrisu said this in Tamale during the International Women's Day celebration. Read: GNA
GUINEA: Guinee 24 reported on 9 March that UNFPA and other development partners contributed to the festivities on International Women's Day. The Ministry of Social Affairs organized, in collaboration with UNFPA, an awareness day on defense forces and security on resolutions 1325 and 1820. In Guinea, UNFPA works alongside the Government for the right to health and equal opportunity for every man, woman and child. It conducts advocacy and technical support to the Guinean Government to ensure that all girls and all Guinean women are treated with dignity and respect. Watch in French: Guinee 24
JORDAN: Al–Rai featured an interview on 10 March with Muna Idris, UNFPA Jordan Assistant Representative. She reinforced the continuous commitment of UNFPA to support women’s rights in general and reproductive rights and health in particular. Ms. Idris stated that Jordan is one of the few countries which showed fundamental progress on reproductive health indicators, and on achieving a balance between population growth and natural and economic resources. Despite the tangible achievements in women’s reproductive health, there remain a number of areas that require increased attention like post-natal care, enhancing the role of health workers in addressing gender-based violence, focusing on the unmet needs for family planning, and improving the quality of services and existing system for reporting on maternal mortalities. All of these issues are highlighted in UNFPA Jordan’s current and future programmes of cooperation. Read in Arabic: Al-Rai
IRAN: IRNA reported on 7 March that UNFPA Executive Director Babatunde Osotimehin called for the use of women’s full potential in his message on International Women’s Day. “While the world approaches a population of seven billion, it’s high time to unleash the full potential of half the world’s population,” Dr. Osotimehin said in a press release. Read: IRNA
MADAGASCAR: La Verite, Madatimes, Midi-Madagasikara and Les Nouvelles reported on 8-10 March that to celebrate International Women’s Day, public debates were organized in Madagascar on the following issues: girls’ access to education; sexual and reproductive health and reproductive rights; and equal rights for women and men. The reports quoted the Executive Director’s message on IWD and mentioned some data collected from UNFPA reports.
MALDIVES: Minivan News and Haveeru reported on 8 March that the Maldives celebrated the 100th anniversary of International Women’s Day. Celebrations included a function jointly organized by UNFPA and the NGO Thirees Nuvaeh. Speakers included the country’s first female MP and former Health Minister Aneesa Ahmed, serving MP Eva Abdulla, Sheikh Mohamed Qubadh Abubakru and Savithri Goonesekara, Emeritus Professor of Law at the University of Colombo in Sri Lanka. Read: Minivan News and Haveeru
MOZAMBIQUE: Rádio Cidade reported on 12 March that UNFPA supported an event led by peer educators to celebrate International Women’s Day, in the suburb of Laulane, in Maputo. The event, named “Show Biz” consisted of a public lecture on the importance of promoting access to education for girls, sensitization to HIV testing and live music performances by local popular artists such as Band Soweto and Mr. Bow. Jossias Chitive, a member of the Núcleo de Mavalane contra Drogras e HIV (youth association against drugs and HIV), who coordinated the event, said that live music helped to attract youngsters to participate.
NIGERIA: The Nigerian Tribune published a letter on 8 March from Zonta International on highlighting its service programme for this biennium (2010 - 2012) valued at $1,500,000; $500,000 to the prevention of Mother-to-Child transmission of HIV and gender-based violence in Rwanda, a project in collaboration with UNICEF; $500,000 to the elimination of Obstetric Fistula and the reduction of maternal and newborn mortality and morbidity in Liberia, a project in co-operation with UNFPA; $500,000 to the Safe Cities For Women project in Guatemala City, Guatemala and San Salvador, El Salvador, a project in cooperation with UNIFEM.
OMAN: The Times of Oman reported on 8 March on the commemoration of International Women’s Day, noting that since the launch of the UNFPA GCC office in 2006, collaboration began with the Ministry of Social Development in all aspects of concern to women’s issues and gender. Read: The Times of Oman
PAKISTAN: The News reported on 9 March that recent trends in the health sector indicate that Pakistan has begun to significantly lag behind many regional countries in South Asia in terms of obtaining a reduction in the child and maternal mortality rates. This concern was flagged during the course of a recent focus group discussion on “Overcoming barriers in Reproductive Health.” The event was arranged by Leadership for Environment and Development (Lead) Pakistan in connection with International Women’s Day. The event was attended by a group of senior government officials, media personnel, civil society representatives, health experts, corporate figures and academic professionals. These included the Lady Health Worker Program, Ministry of Health, UNFPA, Rutgers World Population Foundation, Marie Stopes Society, National Trust for Population Welfare, Rozan, Sachet, Shifa College of Medicine and Heartfile. Read: The News
PARAGUAY: Multiple media outlets reported on 7-8 March that International Women’s Day was marked in Paraguay and around the world. Babatunde Osotimehin, Executive Director of UNFPA, called for fundamental human rights, the equal rights of men and women, and noted that as the world approaches a population of seven billion, it’s high time to unleash the full potential of half the world’s population. Read in Spanish: Agencia Jakueke, La Nacion, La Nacion
SUDAN: Sudan Vision Daily reported on 9 March that the United Nations and African Union Mission in Darfur (UNAMID) celebrated International Women's Day in al Naqa'a Square in El Fashir under slogan of equality, training and education for women. The celebration was organized by UNAMID in cooperation with the Government of North Darfur, UNICEF, UNFPA and UNDP. Read: Sudan Vision Daily
Al Sahafa, Khartoum Monitor and Sudan Vision Daily published UNFPA Executive Director Babatunde Osotimehin’s statement marking International Women’s Day on 8 March. He said, “Today, we celebrate International Women’s Day and once again declare our faith in fundamental human rights, in the dignity and worth of the human person, and in the equal rights of men and women. As the world approaches a population of seven billion, it’s high time to unleash the full potential of half the world’s population.” Read: Sudan Vision Daily and in Arabic: Al Sahafa
Dagens Nyheter (Sweden) marke International Women’s Day on 8 March with a story that focused in particular on Ulrika Rehnström, a Swedish midwife who works for UNFPA training local midwifes with the Health Department in Juba in Southern Sudan. There are currently only about 110 midwives in the whole region. According to Ms. Rehnström, one of the biggest challenges is to get the Health Department to employ the newly trained midwives. In Southern Sudan, only 10 per cent of all pregnant women deliver in hospitals due to the lack of trained midwives and high cost of medical equipment. The maternal mortality ratio in Sudan is one of the highest in the world: 2,054 of 100,000 Sudanese women die from pregnancy-related causes. Read in Swedish: Dagens Nyheter
TURKEY: Multiple media outlets reported on 7-8 March on events marking International Women’s Day in Turkey and around the world, including UNFPA Executive Director Babatunde Osotimehin’s statement on the day. Coverage focusing on Turkey noted that every day, a woman is killed in the country in the name of “honour,” something that should be stopped immediately, UNFPA said in a statement for International Women’s Day. “Four out of 10 women are facing violence ... and this should be stopped urgently,” said the statement, which was issued by Zahidul Huque, the UNFPA Representative in Turkey. In addition, UNFPA sponsored a photography exhibit to raise awareness of gender-based violence in Turkey. Read: Hurriyet and Today’s Zaman. Read in Turkish: Birgun, CNN-Turkish, DHA, Milliyet, NTVMSNBC, Sabah, Super Online,
UGANDA: New Vision reported on 10 March that First Lady Janet Museveni has said the struggle to save the lives of women and newborns must continue. She noted that the maternal mortality ratio in Uganda had changed minimally over the last 10 years and that 16 women still lost their lives daily and 45,000 newborns die every year as a result of preventable causes related to pregnancy and childbirth. “We must resolve to act now and change this unacceptable situation,” she said. Mrs. Museveni was officiating at the White Ribbon Alliance for Safe Motherhood Uganda Chapter dinner in celebration of the 100th International Women’s Day. UNFPA Assistant Representative Dr. Ochan Wilfred called upon the Government to make maternal health a priority by increasing investment in midwifery training and health infrastructure.
UNITED STATES: Associated Press reported on 8 March on the 100th Anniversary of International Women’s Day, noting that Babatunde Osotimehin, Executive Director of UNFPA, said equal rights are advanced when girls can avoid child marriage and enjoy equal access to education, both men and women can plan their families, and pregnant women no longer fear losing their jobs. Read: Associated Press
The Huffington Post published a blog on 8 March on coordinated efforts by NGOs, along with larger organizations like the WHO, to help combat this massive public health issue. Fistula is not a disease, stressed Dr. Gert Morren, of Doctors Without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), but a "handicap" that is "perfectly preventable," through skilled OB care, which the UNFPA says is not an option for many women because their husbands or mothers-in-law force them to stay home to give birth. (The UNFPA reports that another kind of fistula can be caused when the vaginal canal is ruptured in a violent rape, which happened so often in Congo in 2003 that doctors considered it a crime of combat.) Treatment for fistula is done via surgery and subsequent physiological work. Read: The Huffington Post
ZIMBABWE: The Herald reported on 7 March on the status of women in the country, noting that in a statement, UNFPA Executive Director Babatunde Osotimehin said that as the world approaches a population of seven billion, it's high time to unleash the full potential of half the world's population. International Women's Day is the platform to declare women's faith in fundamental human rights, in the dignity and worth of the human person, and in the equal rights of men and women. Read: The Herald
MADAGASCAR: Donation From UNFPA Seeks to Reduce Maternal Death
Midi Mdagaskaria, L’Express and La Verite reported on 24 February that UNFPA Madagascar through the RHCS Global Programme and Maternal Health Thematic Fund has donated to the Ministry of Health via SALAMA a number of goods and medicines including Caesarean kits, emergency obstetric care kits and training materials, contraceptives, motorcycles and computers with related accessories. The total value of this donation amounted to approximately $6 million. These goods will be distributed to health centres in order to assist women deliveries and to promote family planning.
MADAGASCAR: New Year, New Challenges
The Times of Madagascar reported on 8 February that the annual review of the country programme between the government of Madagascar and the UNFPA was held on 2-3 February. The results and the major achievements in 2010 were presented during the meeting. Each component of the programme was presented and the main activities for 2011 were outlined. UNFPA Madagascar faces new challenges in 2011, with the aim to improve the living conditions of the women of reproductive age, and of the population in general. Read in French: The Times of Madagascar
MADAGASCAR: Efforts to End Fistula
Midi Madagaskaria reported on 18 January on a survey that was conducted by UNFPA in 2008 on fistula. Some findings that were highlighted included the health personnel’s weak knowledge related to fistula, adolescent pregnancy, lack of access to health services and poverty. On the basis of this survey, UNFPA has launched a campaign to help eradicate fistula in Madagascar through advocacy and technical support in the training of some 10 medical doctors in fistula surgical repairs and the social reintegration of fistula survivors in their communities through training and other income generating activities.
MADAGASCAR: Maternal Mortality Reduction
Midi Madagaskaria reported on 13 January that UNFPA, through the Maternal Health Thematic Fund, has allocated $975,000 in 2010 to reduce maternal mortality. This amount was invested in Emergency Obstetric and Newborn Care (EmONC), family planning, and delivery assisted by qualified staff. Since 2008, caesarian sections and contraceptive devices are provided without charge in public sector hospitals.
MADAGASCAR: Planning for the Census
L’Express reported on 29 December on preparations for the upcoming census as the Prime Minister installed the coordination committee for the 2011 Population and Housing Census. This census should have taken place in 2009, but was suspended because of the socio-political situation in the country. The Director General of the National Statistics Institute announced that the census will take place from 15-31 August. He also said that as the World Bank funds for the census have been frozen, he needs to look for other financial partners. He said, “UNFPA said that they can't cover the budget for the census but that they can give technical assistance and support for resource mobilization efforts." Read in French: L’Express
GLOBAL: CONTINUING COVERAGE ON INTERNATIONAL DAY FOR THE ELIMINATION OF VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN AND 16 DAYS CAMPAIGN
BANGLADESH: The Financial Express, New Age and the Daily Star reported on 3 and 5 December that leading bands rocked the stage at the concert jointly organized by UNFPA and Bangladesh Band Members Association with the theme, “Say no to violence against women: Be a real man.” UNFPA and BAMBA jointly hosted an open air concert at the Banani Army Stadium to motivate youths against violence. Read: Daily Star, Financial Express
BURUNDI: L’Agence Burundaise de Presse reported on 30 November that the Ministry of National Solidarity, Human Rights and Gender, in partnership with UNFPA, organized a workshop on “Penal procedure and judiciary competencies for the repression of gender based violence.” The objective was to inform stakeholders in fighting against GBV on the steps of penal procedure and judiciary competencies for GBV repression. This activity has been organized during the 16 days campaign of activism for fighting against VGB with the theme, “We must be mobilized ourselves for an efficient legal, institutional and community response for the repression of GBV.”
CONGO (BRAZZAVILLE): Les Depeches de Brazzaville reported on 1 December on a capacity-building workshop held in Pointe Noire from 25-27 November on the occasion of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. The purpose of the workshop is to build participants’ capacity to share information and create blogs and organize civil society to fight violence against women through new information technologies. It is also aimed at educating women about their own rights. The ceremony was opened by Women's Affairs Ministry Provincial Director Esther Makosso and UNFPA Southern Congo sub-office head Bruno Bilombo. Read in French: Les Depeches de Brazzaville
DRTV reported on 30 November on the celebration of the International Campaign for the elimination of Violence against Women, a sensitization workshop for civil society actors, youth and women organizations, led by Women's Affairs Minister, Jeanne-Francoise Leckoumba Loumeto Pombo, UNFPA Representative David Lawson and UNHCR Representative Paul Ndaitour. Mr. Lawson said, "Violence against women is a burden to women's health heavier than two other major plagues combined: road traffic accidents and malaria. 70 per cent of women worldwide experience violence in their lifetime and violence causes each year the death of 7 per cent of women aged 18-44 years."
DRTV and Radio-Congo broadcasted on 30 November, the message of UNFPA Executive Director, Ms. Thoraya Ahmed Obaid on the occasion of International Day for the elimination of Violence Against Women, delivered in Brazzaville by UNFPA Resident Representative, David Lawson.
GEORGIA: Multiple media outlets reported on 29-30 November on the Official Opening of the 16 Days of Activism organized by UNFPA in Georgia, supported by the Parliamentary Council on Gender Equality and the State Inter-Agency Council on Domestic Violence on 25. Read: 24 Saati and Georgia Today in Georgian: 24 Saati, Media News,
INDIA: The Hindu reported on 1 December on the 16 Days campaign, noting that UNFPA lists various forms of violence against women: rape and sexual harassment, child marriage, wife beating, prostitution, female genital cutting/mutilation, dowry-related violence, trafficking, sexual violence during wars, femicide, “honor” killings, forced sterilization, pornography and bride kidnapping. Violence against women also takes many forms of psychological abuse, intimidation and harassment. Read: The Hindu
JAMAICA: Jamaica Gleaner reported on 29 November on the launch of the male mentorship programme in schools and male action group in communities on the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against women. The launch, hosted by the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture and the Bureau of Women's Affairs held at the St. Andrew Parish Church Hall. Male-oriented programmes, which are also supported by UNFPA, aim to reduce violence against women through men and young boys. Community-based programmes select men to attend gender–sensitive workshops and to spread the word to their fellow community members. Read: Jamaica Gleaner
JORDAN: Al Rai and Ad Dustour reported on 30 November – 5 December that the Jordanian National Commission for Women (JNCW) in cooperation with UNFPA and UNICEF launched the activities of the 16 days campaign of activism against gender based violence, marking its twentieth anniversary in Madaba, Kerak and Ajloun. This year's theme, “Structures of Violence: Defining the Intersections of Militarism and Violence Against Women” looks beyond specific forms of violence to underlying societal structures that permit gender-based violence to exist and persist.” The sessions included presentations and technical papers presented by specialist from the university in Jordan, the Family Protection Department, the head of female police and legal specialist of the JNCW. The presentations focused on the psychological and legal angle of this issue, and the services provided for survivors of rape and other forms of gender-based violence. Read in Arabic: Al Rai, Al Rai, Ad Dustour, Ad Dustour
MADAGASCAR: Midi Madagaskaria reported on 1 December on the celebration of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women was the opportunity to launch a booklet revealing 17 women's stories living in remoted areas. Information has also been shared that 7 counselling centres were set up through funding from UNFPA to care for survivors of GBV.
PAKISTAN: The Express Tribune reported on 5 December that for every 100 women, there are 108.5 men in Pakistan, according to Neva Khan from Oxfam GB. Talking at the “Women Solidarity Mela” in Islamabad, Khan added that all indicators relating to the status of women rights reflected that there were “extremely high levels” of discrimination and violence against women in Pakistan. Other participants at the mela, or gathering, demanded the government to submit the bill against domestic violence in the parliament before 10 December when the “16 Days of Activism Against Gender Violence” concludes. Every year, starting on 25 November, these 16 days are observed where people speak out against gender violence, according to UNFPA. Read: The Express Tribune
SUDAN: Sudan Tribune reported on 27 November on the launch of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Based Violence. The newspaper highlighted that the 16 days campaign was launched by the Ministry of Gender, Child and Social Welfare (MGCSW) in the Southern Sudan government, working in partnership with various UN agencies and non-governmental organizations. Margaret Mathew Mathiang, the MGCSW Undersecretary said the annual campaign advocates and lobbies for policies to be implemented to end violence against women.
SWEDEN: Göteborgs-Posten published an op-ed on 3 December on gender-based violence by Pernille Fenger, chief of the UNFPA Nordic Office. The article was published in relation to the International Day to Eliminate Violence against Women. Ms. Fenger wrote that violence against women is not only a women’s issue, but something that concerns all of us. She stressed that violence against women is not inevitable: families and societies can change social norms and attitudes; governments can create laws, enforce them and prosecute offenders; and societies can guarantee the right to sexual and reproductive health, by providing opportunities for family planning, maternal health and HIV prevention, and give everyone the opportunity to make free and informed choices about reproductive and sexual health. Furthermore, Ms. Fenger mentioned that the Swedish government is “an important partner in this work,” pointing out “that Sweden is a country that is a driving force at international levels when it comes to issues related to women’s rights.” Read in Swedish: Goteborgs-Posten
MALAWI: 29 Women Get a New Lease on Life
The Daily Times reported on 21 November that 29 women were treated for obstetric fistula thanks to a UNFPA-funded fistula camp at Zomba Central Hospital.
MOZAMBIQUE: UNFPA Renews Support to Implementing Partners for Geração Biz
TV Miramar (Record Moçambique) reported on 16 November that, according to its deputy representative in Mozambique, Astrid Bant, UNFPA will continue its support for the implementing partners involved in the Geração Biz Programme on adolescent and youth sexual and reproductive health. Ms. Bant said that the organization will help the government and civil society organizations face the new challenges of the Geração Biz Programme. The report also quoted Teodora Cassamo, of the Ministry of Education, who said that “Geração Biz,” in its 11 years of existence, has trained many youngsters capable of passing information about sexual and reproductive health to their peers. The report noted that Ms. Bant and Ms. Cassamo were interviewed after the opening of a three-day national planning meeting of the programme.
MADAGASCAR: Monograph On Population And Development
Midi-Madagaskaria, L’Express and Moov reported on 15-16 November that a monograph of the Melaky region was presented by the Directorate of Method and Planning to sensitize decision-makers, authorities, technicians and NGOs on the interrelation between population and development. In addition, a conference on "Population and Social Development" was held in which two themes: reproductive health status and youth involvement in the development process were discussed and debated. An exhibition on the UNFPA mandate and programme was opened to the public during the conference.