Norway commits additional 3.6 million USD to advance SRHR and combat Obstetric Fistulain South Suda
Marking International Human Rights Day and the
end of the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, the Norwegian Embassy in
Juba announced yesterday an additional funding of approximately 3.6 million USD to the
United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) to support Sexual and Reproductive Health and
Rights (SRHR) initiatives in South Sudan.
Of this, approximately 2.2 million USD is earmarked to addressing obstetric fistula, a
devastating yet preventable condition.
South Sudan faces an alarming backlog of an estimated 60,000 cases of obstetric fistula
requiring surgical intervention, with fewer than 1,000 individuals having received treatment.
This additional funding will be a lifeline for countless women and girls, enabling them to
regain their health, dignity, and independence.
“Through this additional funding we support the acceleration of efforts to ensure that
women receive care with dignity to eliminate obstetric fistula in South Sudan,” said H.E Roar
Haugsdal, the Norwegian Ambassador to South Sudan. “Sexual and reproductive health and
rights are a cornerstone of Norway’s global development priorities.”
Norway has allocated Norwegian Kroner 9.6 billion (approximately 858 million USD) towards
global (SRHR) initiatives for the 2020–2025 period, highlighting its long-standing
commitment to this critical issue.
In South Sudan, the Embassy’s support to the UNFPA Country Programme includes not only
treatment for obstetric fistula but also preventive measures such as addressing child
marriage and teenage pregnancy, improving access to contraceptives, and revitalizing the
National Taskforce on Fistula Management.
Aligned with the Women, Peace, and Security agenda, this initiative underscores the
Embassy’s focus on protecting women and girls in fragile contexts. By prioritizing their health
and rights, Norway aims to empower survivors with a second chance at a dignified life and
contribute to sustainable development in South Sudan.
