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In northern Mozambique, a combination of increased violence and climate emergencies have forced millions to flee their homes in search of safety, triggering outbreaks of both malaria and cholera. Ongoing instability and damaged health facilities heightened the risks of pregnancy and childbirth complications. Conflict and displacement also made women and girls more vulnerable to violence and trafficking. But despite the crisis, the Lichinga health clinic, supported by UNFPA thanks to supporters like you, is swiftly responding to emergencies and providing communities with critical health care.
In Mozambique, only around 25% of women are using modern contraception. Limited services and accessibility have resulted in elevated rates of unintended pregnancies, maternal deaths due to pregnancy and childbirth complications, and unsafe abortions. To help fill this gap, UNFPA is distributing contraceptives and raising awareness through mobile teams and clinics across northern Mozambique. Health providers are receiving training on long-term family planning methods, such as the pill, implants, and intrauterine devices.
HIV prevalence rates for women exceed 10% in Mozambique — double the rate for men. Through the Lichinga center, community leaders and volunteers have spoken to around 2,500 young people from the region, including discussing the cultural barriers to sexual and reproductive health and the stigma surrounding HIV and AIDS. “When young people test themselves and the result is positive, I work [with them] on accepting their status. As a community, it’s our duty to embrace them,” explained Filipe, a youth community activist.
Thanks to private gifts, health workers are providing essential reproductive health services, including crucial HIV tests and information on family planning. Keeping these services funded is absolutely vital as communities across Mozambique face continued challenges such as violence, insecurity, and health crises.
Thank you for your support. — USA for UNFPA |
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