UNFPA undertaking over 209 million Birr dev't programs in Ethiopia

Addis Ababa, November 10(ENA)-- The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) says it is carrying out various development programs in Ethiopia with an outlay of over 209 million Birr.

UNFPA deputy representative to Ethiopia, Duah Owusu-Sarfo told ENA that the five-year country program mainly focuses on reproductive health, family planning, population and development as well as advocacy.

UNFPA is working closely with the government to address the health and population challenges of the country, Sarfo said.

He noted that UNFPA was assisting the government's efforts geared towards reducing the rate of population growth, which he said does not correspond with the development of the country.

In this regard, Sarfo said, UNFPA is supporting the Ministry of Health to provide effective reproductive health services to the general public.

UNFPA has procured over 8.5 million Birr worth contraceptive commodities to be distributed among various national states this year, he said, adding the Fund has donated four trucks for the transportation of the commodities.

The UN organ has launched a program at a cost of some 40 million Birr with a view to reducing maternal mortality rate in the country and make pregnancy safer, Sarfo said.

He said the program was being undertaken in Tigray, Amhara, Oromia and South Ethiopian Peoples' States.

UNFPA is also engaged in advocacy services in a bid to tackle the adverse effects of Harmful Traditional Practices (HTPs) particularly on females, the deputy country representative said.

He said the Fund has been carrying out a systematic program with the objective of alleviating festula problems, which are mainly related to early marriage.

As part of its reproductive health program, UNFPA is involved in extensive HIV/AIDS activities in different parts of the country, he said.

UNFPA started its operation in Ethiopia in 1973.

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