A joint project to be supported by  UNFPA, UNICEF, and WHO on strengthening the delivery of maternal, neonatal, and child health and building resilient health systems in conflict-affected areas in Afar, Amhara, and Oromia Regions of Ethiopia was launched today. The 18 months project funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation will support targeted and integrated interventions for women, girls, adolescents, children, and newborns.  

Speaking at the event, Honorable Dr. Meseret Zelalem, Director of the Maternal, Child, and Nutrition Directorate at the Ministry of Health said the Ministry would closely collaborate with the Agencies to facilitate the coordination and to learn from innovative approaches and best practices. “Delivering health service in conflict-affected areas requires innovation and strong coordination. This project will allow us to focus on that,” she said.

The project will support implementing and coordinating innovative solutions for maternal, neonatal, and child health service delivery and building resilient health systems in conflict-affected areas in Ethiopia. It will also contribute to the government of Ethiopia’s recovery efforts with an aim to decrease preventable maternal and child mortality and morbidity.

Ms. Suzanne Mandong, UNFPA Ethiopia Representative a.i. said that the support is critical and timely. “UNFPA will exert utmost efforts to implement this joint UN project efficiently by collaborating with the Ministry of Health, regional health bureaus, programs, and partners,” she noted. 

The project is expected to help the three agencies streamline and coordinate their interventions to scale up compelling innovations; test new strategies and approaches in delivering quality and skilled services; and contribute to the evidence base for responsive and resilient service delivery interventions.