The 2020 drought is the most severe in 10 years in the South of Madagascar and has engendered significant impact in terms of increased violence against women and girls, pregnancy complications as a result of malnutrition and increased risk of maternal death exacerbated by limited access to health cares. Moreover, this part of the Island reported the highest fertility rate with an average of 5 to 8 children per woman.
In this context, The First Lady who is the President of Fitia Association and also UNFPA champion of the fight against GBV in collaboration with the Ministry of National Education, UNFPA, WFP, WHO and ILO, conducted a joint awareness and provision of integrated services campaign entitled "Avotse" in the South of Madagascar to build the resilience of the local population, especially women and girls.
In close cooperation with Ministry of Public Health, Ministry of Population, Marie Stopes Madagascar, UNFPA was involved in outreach activities on Sexual and Reproductive Health and Family Planning (SRH/FP) services through mobile clinics, prevention and GBV response. Over 1 500 people were reached with GBV prevention and the advantages of family planning messages; while more than 400 women and girls, including people living with disabilities, benefited from free SRH/FP and GBV services as well as dignity and hygiene kits.
The First Lady of Madagascar, reaffirmed her commitment to fight against GBV and highlighted the free and voluntary access to family planning services for everyone. UNFPA Representative reiterated its continuous support to the Malagasy Government and joined all development partners in their efforts to make sure that the Rights for all in education and health are enjoyed and no one is left behind. Local authorities and representatives of beneficiaries declared their willingness to defend human rights and pursue all necessary actions for the well-being of the communities.
