Health

Poor health often perpetuates the cycle of poverty. Illnesses can lead to increased medical expenses, reduced productivity and loss of income. By addressing health issues, individuals and communities have a better chance of escaping poverty because good health is a cornerstone of human wellbeing. Health interventions lead to better physical, mental and social wellbeing, enabling individuals to lead productive and fulfilling lives.

In 2022-2023, partners implementing health projects provided health services to 44,347 community members including 22,156 women, 9,202 girls, 7,748 men and 5,241 boys. Highlights include:

• In Mali, 24,637 COVID-19 vaccines were administered to 6,932 women, 7,106 men, 3,812 girls and 4,227 boys living in in rural districts.
• In Bamako, Mali, community health workers conducted 5,436 family planning visits with women and adolescent girls and administered 5,512 pregnancy tests.
• At the Bobete Health Centre in Lesotho, 1,267 patients (856 women, 261 girls and 150 boys) accessed maternal and infant care services.
• In Mae La and Nu Poe camps along the Thai-Burmese border, 75 clients successfully completed their drug addiction programs.
• In Nampula province, Mozambique, 50 solar suitcases were installed in the maternity wards of rural health centres, assisting 13,308 women and 3,993 adolescent girls during nighttime labour.

Health projects often have a positive impact on gender equality by addressing women’s and girls health needs, reducing maternal mortality, and empowering women to make informed decisions about their health and wellbeing.