LAGOS Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)-From 2000 to 2020, the life expectancy of African women increased from 54 to 67 years, says Regional Director for Africa, World Health Organization (WHO), Dr. Matshidiso Moeti.
Maternal mortality ratio decreased by 33% (from 788 to 531 maternal deaths per 100 000 live births) while the proportion of women at reproductive age who are satisfied with modern family planning methods also increased from 47% to 56.5% in 2020.
Moeti said this while addressing the world in commemoration of the International Women’s Day, IWD, coming up on March 8.
In a press statement shared on the WHO’s website, Moeti said reflecting on this year’s theme “Invest in women: Accelerate Progress,” brought back memories of her initiatives investing in women, especially young women.
She said this year’s theme highlights the importance of gender equality, women’s and girls’ empowerment, and their rights to healthier lives as she said that it is a powerful development tool.
Moeti some programmes, projects and activities that were adopted by WHO led to a marked improvement in the health and well-being of women and girls.
READ ALSO: Plateau Attacks: WHO Donates Trauma Kits To Victims
She said to achieve all these, they have worked with regional partners and civil society stakeholders to understand the socioeconomic, systemic, and political barriers that negatively impact gender equality in access to healthcare.
She said some flagship initiatives that aided WHO to achieve the milestone includes- Women’s Leadership Program, as part of the WHO African Region’s Transformation Agenda.
“The WHO African Region Women in Leadership Masterclass: Power Up Your Executive Presence; and the Africa Women Health Champions initiative, implemented in collaboration with the United Nations Volunteers programme,” she added
She said the different programmes including the 100th Champions have attracted young African women aged 22 to 35 who are groomed, mentored, coached, and supported to grow to full potential for the future of the Organization.
“It has given the young “Champions” the opportunity to contribute to our work of improving people’s health and well-being while promoting gender equality and diversity.
“Besides, the Women’s Leadership Program, part of the WHO African Region Transformation Agenda, tailored to the needs of female staff in the workplace, has empowered and equipped women; it has given them the necessary tools for leadership positions in the Organization.
“Over 80% of our Member States in the African Region are integrating gender, equity, and human rights considerations at varying gender-responsive scales.
Moeti noted that despite the achievements, there are still many challenges to address, but they are not insurmountable.
She said priority funding is waning for many women’s organizations and civil society partners.
“We are seeing a global rise of anti-rights and anti-gender movements coupled with multiple and protracted crises.
“It is more important than ever that we stand firm to champion the rights of every woman and girl child by investing more to accelerate progress,” she said.