UNFPA and Government of Japan Launch $1 Million Project to Address Maternal Health and GBV Needs in Conflict-Affected Areas of Sudan

The project comes amid escalating violence and displacement in Sudan, with nearly 8.8 million people displaced since April 2023. This crisis has led to dire healthcare challenges, including severe shortages in maternal and reproductive health services, heightened GBV risks, and compromised healthcare infrastructure. 

"Women and girls are bearing the brunt of this conflict. With hospitals destroyed, referral systems broken, and rising food insecurity increasing GBV risks, this project will provide a lifeline for the most vulnerable," said Argentina Matavel, UNFPA Sudan Representative (a.i.).

 The project will focus on three key areas: 

• Strengthening Maternal Health Services: UNFPA will support six emergency obstetric and neonatal care (EmONC) facilities by providing medical equipment, training healthcare providers, and ensuring operational resources. Mobile health and roving teams will deliver life-saving reproductive health services in remote areas, benefiting over 36,000 women and girls.
• Enhancing Referral Systems: Integrated mobile health teams will be deployed to areas with limited access to maternal healthcare. Referral pathways will also be reinforced through cash and voucher assistance (CVA), covering emergency obstetric care and transportation costs.
• Expanding GBV Prevention and Response Services: The project will establish two Women and Girls Safe Spaces and two One-Stop Service Centers for GBV survivors. These centers will provide comprehensive services, including GBV case management, psychosocial support, and clinical care. Additionally, community-based protection networks and awareness-raising campaigns will be implemented to mitigate GBV risks.

"The ongoing conflict in Sudan has severely impacted access to healthcare, leaving many women and girls vulnerable to gender-based violence and critical gaps in sexual and reproductive health services due to the destruction of hospitals and medical facilities. This UNFPA project will provide essential medical care to more than 36,000 women and girls, strengthen referral systems, and expand GBV prevention and response services. Recognizing the urgency of these needs, Japan is committed to supporting this initiative in partnership with UNFPA to help address maternal health and GBV challenges in conflict-affected areas of Sudan," said Kentaro Mizuuchi, Chargé d’Affaires of Japan to Sudan.