On December 5, 2024, a high-level meeting was convened at the Ministry of Health in Ethiopia, bringing together key stakeholders including the Honorable Dr. Dereje Diguma Deputy Minister of Health, Mrs. Marie-Evelyn Petrus-Barry the Regional Director of the International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF), Frank van de Looij, and First Secretary Health Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands and the Executive Board and Senior Management Team of the Family Guidance Association of Ethiopia (FGAE).
The meeting aimed to address critical issues surrounding Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) in the context of dwindling funding.
Key Discussion Points was
- Current Challenges in SRHR Funding
- Dwindling Financial Resources: The meeting highlighted the urgent need to address the declining financial support for SRHR initiatives, which poses a significant threat to health services.
- Impact on Programs: Participants discussed how reduced funding affects the implementation of vital programs and services aimed at improving reproductive health outcomes.
- Support for FGAE
Assistance Initiatives: The importance of providing assistance to the FGAE was emphasized, recognizing its critical role in delivering SRHR services.
- Collaboration Opportunities: Attendees explored potential collaborative efforts between the Ministry of Health, IPPF, and FGAE to enhance service delivery and mobilize resources.
- Strategic Approaches
- Advocacy for Increased Funding: Strategies to advocate for increased funding from both national and international sources were discussed.
- Strengthening Partnerships: The need for stronger partnerships among governmental and non-governmental organizations to ensure sustainable SRHR services was identified.
The meeting underscored the pressing need for collective action to address effectively SRHR in Ethiopia. By fostering collaboration and advocating for increased funding, stakeholders aim to ensure that essential health services remain accessible to all, particularly in light of current financial constraints.
