UNFPA was recognized with a prize by the Tigray Regional State at the Health Festival that was held in the Region on July 29th, 2016 for its unreserved contribution in support of the health sector. Mr. Faustin Yao, UNFPA Country Representative, received the prize in the presence of senior government officials and development partners. UNFPA has interventions on maternal and reproductive health, education, and gender and economic empowerment in ten districts in the Region.
The Health Festival that was held under the motto "Renew the promise, Realize Health Transformation!” was organized with the aim of recognizing promising achievements and motivating future contributions in the health sector. During the festival, a number of programs were organized including field visits to health facilities and communities for sharing experiences. The festival was attended by more than 800 participants from the Federal Ministry of Health, regional and zonal administrations, sector bureaus, district health offices, health professional networks, development partners, the private sector and the academia.
During his stay in Tigray Region, Mr. Yao paid a visit to the Mekele University to see the progress of and challenges encountered in the implementation of the UNFPA Supported graduate program on Integrated Emergency Surgery and Obstetrics. Mr. Yao also saw the support being provided by UNFPA in primary and secondary schools in the Kola Tenben District to improve school attendance by female students. The support is being provided in the form of educational and sanitary materials.
The UNFPA support has also helped 2400 adolescent girls open an account with a microfinance institution to enhance their financial literacy and encourage them to save money with the aim of empowering them economically.
