The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to combat discrimination and ensure that all women and girls in the country suffering from fistula conditions receive proper care and treatment.
Lydia Zigomo, UNFPA’s Regional Director for Eastern and Southern Africa, underscored the commitment during her visit to the Fistula Care Centre at Bwaila Maternity Hospital in Lilongwe.
Accompanied by a delegation that included UNFPA’s Malawi Country Representative Nelida Rodrigues, Secretary for Health Dr. Samson Mndolo, Director of Reproductive Health, Doreen Ali and Board Chairperson of Freedom from Fistula Foundation, Grace Chiudzu, Zigomo aimed to gain firsthand insights into the center’s operations, impact, and challenges.
The Fistula Care Centre stands as a beacon of hope for women and girls grappling with this debilitating condition. Zigomo expressed her admiration for the center’s tireless efforts in providing healing and restoration.
“We engaged with women and girls scheduled for surgical repairs. Witnessing the transformative impact of this facility fills us with hope. As UNFPA, we collaborate closely with the Ministry of Health to extend our support. Our shared goal is to empower more girls to stay in school longer, ultimately reducing the incidence of teen pregnancies. Such reductions can, in turn, contribute to a decline in fistula cases,” said Zigomo.
Margaret Moyo, Country Director of the Freedom from Fistula Foundation, shed light on the center’s work.
“Each month the center performs repairs and rehabilitation for approximately 25 women and girls. UNFPA plays a crucial role by channeling funds to address fistula cases. Currently, we have around 43 women in recovery—a testament to the impact of UNFPA’s support. Beyond medical care, we equip them with economic skills, including tailoring, and provide comprehensive entrepreneurship training,” said Moyo.
In her remarks, Doreen Ali, Director of Reproductive Health, echoed the importance of collaborative efforts.
“While the government strives to enhance the quality of health services, our progress is significantly bolstered by partners like UNFPA. Together, we can create lasting change and improve the lives of those affected by obstetric fistula, ” said Ali.
As the world observes the International Day to End Obstetric Fistula on May 23, the Bwaila Fistula Care Centre stands poised to join the global community in commemorating this global event. Amidst challenges and triumphs, the center remains a beacon of hope, advocating for the dignity, health, and well-being of women and girls across Malawi.
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