ECOWAS and UNFPA Commits to Ending Obstetric Fistula in West Africa.
By Raymond Enoch
In a powerful display of regional solidarity and commitment to women’s health, the ECOWAS Gender Development Centre (EGDC), in partnership with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), commemorated the International Day for the Elimination of Obstetric Fistula alongside the 50th anniversary of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) on Friday, 23 May, in Abidjan.
The dual celebration served as a symbolic moment to underscore ECOWAS’ dedication to eradicating obstetric fistula—a debilitating childbirth injury affecting over two million women globally, particularly in low-resource settings. With an estimated 100,000 new cases emerging each year, the issue remains a critical public health challenge.
Since 2010, ECOWAS, through EGDC, has led a region-wide programme offering medical care, psychological support, and socio-economic reintegration services for women and girls suffering from fistula. This year’s commemoration renewed the call for holistic, integrated solutions and greater collaboration among West African health stakeholders to address maternal health challenges as a key component of the Global Health Agenda.
“The fight against obstetric fistula is not just a health issue—it’s a matter of dignity, human rights, and gender equity,” said a representative from the ECOWAS Commission. “As we celebrate 50 years of ECOWAS, we reaffirm our commitment to ensuring that no woman is left behind.”
The event concluded with renewed pledges to accelerate efforts towards eliminating obstetric fistula across the region by leveraging policy, partnerships, and community engagement.
