VFHA prioritises sexual reproductive health and rights services in response

Jan 30, 2025 | News | 0

The Vanuatu Family Health Association (VFHA) in collaboration with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) provided free clinical services to those in need following the earthquake.

The SHEFA Health was instrumental in identifying the impacted communities.

Over 80,000 individuals have been affected in the earthquake, with 14 fatalities and widespread displacements.

Over a month now after the disaster, communities continue to face challenges, particularly in accessing clinical care.

VFHA’s response initiative began on December 21, 2024, and concluded on January 24 2025.

During this period, it provided 5,500 individuals with a range of clinical services, including Sexual and Reproductive Health Services (SRHS), such as First Line Support for Gender-Based Violence (GBV) survivors, rapid Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) testing and treatment, emergency antenatal care, and general health services.

Through partnerships with SHEFA Health, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), and the International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF), the Vanuatu Family Health Association (VFHA) has been able to provide services via both static and mobile clinics. The mobile clinic visited locations, including Blacksands, Erakor Village, Eratap Community, Etas, Club Hippique, and Eton Area, while static clinics have been established at Freshwota Field stage and Malapoa School compound.

”We endured the disaster together and are determined to overcome its effects as a united front. VFHA actively supports communities that lack access to vital sexual and reproductive health services in the wake of the earthquake,” said the Executive Director, Julius Ssenabulya, in a statement.

”VFHA is a member association of global SRHR network of IPPF. We appreciate the Australian Government Australian Aid for the support enabling thousands of people affected by the earthquake to access live-saving health services.”

VFHA Medical Services Coordinator, Leais Obed, said: “We surpassed our goal of reaching 5,000 individuals, a feat accomplished through the dedicated efforts of our team of clinicians and support staff. I wish to express my gratitude to all the clinicians and support staff for their time, effort, and sacrifices in executing this response activity.

”Additionally, I would like to extend my appreciation to Australian aid for their generous support of our clinicians and support staff, which contributed significantly to the successful implementation of our humanitarian response alongside our partners.”

”SHEFA Provincial Health continued to embrace government decentralized shared leadership and coordination with health implementing partners, a positive impact,” said the SHEFA Provincial Emergency Operating Centre Controller, Morris Amos.

Looking ahead, VFHA is committed to strengthening health services by establishing clinical facilities that will address both Sexual Reproductive Health and general health needs, facilitating a more effective rebuilding process.

VFHA is expected to resume full comprehensive health services delivery as of last Friday.

SOURCE: VANUATU DAILY POST

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