The Ivorian government has called for the consolidation of gains made in the fight against obstetric fistula, a condition that affects thousands of women and girls in the country. Minister Delegate for African Integration and Ivorian Expatriates, Adama Dosso, made the appeal on October 5, 2026, in Grand-Bassam, at the opening of a workshop to review and capitalize on the Obstetric Fistula Medical and Financial Support Program.
The program, which was launched in 2024, has provided medical, surgical, and psychosocial care to 60 women and girls affected by obstetric fistula, as well as support for their socio-economic reintegration. The program was implemented with the support of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) through its Centre for Gender Development.
Dosso emphasized that obstetric fistula should not be viewed solely from a medical perspective, as its consequences also affect the dignity, social integration, and economic autonomy of affected women. He called on experts to formulate operational recommendations and develop a roadmap for the program's continuation and possible expansion to more areas.
The Minister for Women, Family, and Children, Nassénéba Touré, also highlighted the need for a comprehensive approach to tackling obstetric fistula, combining medical care, prevention, protection, and economic empowerment. She noted that a surgical caravan organized in 2025, with support from the UN Population Fund (UNFPA) and Korean cooperation, had helped restore 150 women.
The two-day workshop brought together stakeholders, including representatives from the Ministry of Health, Public Hygiene, and Universal Health Coverage, ECOWAS, and partner organizations. Participants reviewed the program's achievements, challenges, and areas for improvement, including medical and surgical care, prevention, psychosocial support, and socio-economic reintegration.
The Ivorian government and ECOWAS aim to strengthen regional integration through initiatives that have a direct impact on people's lives. The program's expansion is contingent on securing necessary funding and partnerships.
The government plans to pursue the program and potentially extend it to more beneficiaries and areas from 2027. Key stakeholders will work together to mobilize resources and partnerships to support the initiative.
Key points
- The Ivorian government seeks to build on progress in tackling obstetric fistula and expand the program to more areas.
- The program has provided medical, surgical, and psychosocial care to 60 women and girls affected by obstetric fistula.
- The government aims to strengthen regional integration through initiatives that have a direct impact on people's lives.
