Madagascar

With a rapidly growing population putting pressure on a weak health care system, Madagascar contends with a high maternal death rate and a large unmet need for family planning. Thousands of women also suffer from birth injuries such as obstetric fistula. UNFPA has provided assistance since 1978 and is currently financing the majority of reproductive health commodities, as part of a drive to extend quality reproductive health and family-planning services, including for vulnerable groups. Initiatives also support the reduction of gender-based violence, assist in the development of reliable demographic data, and help women and girls affected by crises such as Tropical Cyclone Freddy.