NAMAYINGO, Uganda - On Wednesday, 7 February 2024, UNFPA and the Embassy of Iceland launched a transformative 3-year partnership to address obstetric fistula and empower survivors through the implementation of the Survivors Treatment and Obstetric Fistula Prevention (STOP) programme in Namayingo District.
With a funding of USD 3 million from the Embassy of Iceland in Uganda, the project aims at enhancing access to fistula prevention services, address the stigma and gender-based violence (GBV) frequently encountered by fistula survivors, as well as facilitating their successful reintegration into society as empowered individuals.
Restoring hope
The project focuses on three main areas: 1) Increasing knowledge in communities about the causes and prevention of obstetric fistula, 2) increasing the utilization of related services, and 3) strengthening the capacity of healthcare facilities and community structures to provide quality maternal health and GBV services, including fistula care.
The project will also focus on rehabilitating and reintegrating women affected by obstetric fistula into society as productive citizens.
Speaking at the STOP launch, Ms. Gift Malunga, the UNFPA Country Representative, commended the Embassy of Iceland in Uganda for their dedication and support to the STOP programme.
She said together, we can build a future where every woman in Uganda has access to quality healthcare and the opportunity to live a life free of stigma and discrimination.
“The project will facilitate implementation of sustainable and mainstream social services that foster fistula prevention and care to reduce maternal morbidity arising from obstetric fistula,” she said.
“We remain committed to supporting the government of the Republic of Uganda in enhancing maternal health, particularly for the most vulnerable adolescent girls and young women who are often left behind," added Ms. Malunga
During the launch of the STOP programme, Ms. Hildigunnur Engilbertsdóttir, the Head of Mission at the Iceland Embassy in Uganda, highlighted the significance of funding initiatives aimed at combating fistula.
She emphasized that investing in strengthening the quality of reproductive and maternal health services not only promotes gender equality and human rights but also yields long-term benefits. Ms. Engilbertsdóttir expressed the Embassy's delight in contributing to the programme in Namayingo district.
“We eagerly anticipate collaborating with Namayingo District, the Ministry of Health and UNFPA to combat fistula and empower survivors in the region," said Ms. Engilbertsdóttir.
The three-year project strengthens the essential and continued collaboration between the Government of Iceland and UNFPA.
- Story by Prisca Uwera
