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Juba – Al-Wadi Weekly
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in South Sudan and the Government of Norway have discussed ways to strengthen their partnership and support programmes focused on sexual and reproductive health and rights for women and girls, during the annual consultations held in Juba on August 25.
The meeting was chaired by Francis Tokwasbwi, Officer-in-Charge of the UNFPA South Sudan Country Office, while the Norwegian Embassy delegation was led by Jeanette Braunehild Johansen da Silva, Head of Cooperation at the Royal Norwegian Embassy in Juba.
The consultations reviewed progress made under the partnership, key achievements, and strategic priorities for the next phase of cooperation.
UNFPA said Norwegian support goes beyond financial contributions, providing the resources and strategic backing needed to generate tangible and sustainable impact in local communities.
In 2025, Norway provided US$3.6 million, equivalent to approximately NOK 40 million, to support sexual and reproductive health and rights programmes in South Sudan.
The funding contributed to expanding maternal healthcare services, supporting women who survived obstetric fistula, and efforts to reduce child marriage and protect women and girls from gender-based violence. It also supported youth empowerment through comprehensive sexuality education and leadership skills development.
According to UNFPA, 554 women and girls living with obstetric fistula received treatment in 2025 through 14 fistula treatment camps conducted across the country. Fistula treatment services were also integrated into routine healthcare at Juba Teaching Hospital and Wau Teaching Hospital.
In addition, 370 fistula survivors received social reintegration services and income-generating activity start-up packages, aimed at supporting recovery, restoring dignity and strengthening economic independence.
UNFPA expressed its appreciation to the Government and people of Norway for their continued commitment to supporting communities in South Sudan, stressing the importance of ensuring that financial resources are used efficiently and translated into tangible and sustainable results.
As part of the continued partnership, Norway in 2026 pledged an additional US$3.2 million, approximately NOK 30 million, to support sexual and reproductive health and rights initiatives in South Sudan.
The additional support comes as efforts continue to improve maternal and reproductive healthcare services for women and girls, strengthen protection against gender-based violence, and expand access to essential health information and services, particularly for young people.
