This year marks the thirtieth anniversary of the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) Programme of Action. As parliamentarians, we must resolve to work harder and put efforts to driving development for a better and more prosperous future
The ICPD Programme of Action is the recognition that women’s sexual and reproductive health and reproductive rights are cornerstones of sustainable development and supporting youth voices in the decision-making process.
I believe that as parliamentarians, we have made progress. More women and girls now have access to modern contraception. Maternal deaths have fallen thirty-four per cent since the year 2002. Civi society and women’s movements in the continent have witnessed change in their drive than ever.
But progress in accelerating youth voices in decision-making process participation reality has been unequal. It is unacceptable that in the continent today, around 500 women die needlessly every day in pregnancy and childbirth – these calls for urgent attention from our leaders. The major challenges facing the continent in some regions are legislative advances in tackling vital issues such as female genital mutilation risk going into rejection.
As the theme of this year’s World Population Day reminds us, investing in data collection is important to understanding challenges, managing solutions, and driving progress. So is funding. I plead with the African leaders and parliamentarians to make the most of the Summit of the Future this year to come up with reasonable budget financing for sustainable development.
Let’s be honest to deliver on the ICPD Programme of Action as parliamentarians, for everyone in the continent.
President@iypglobal.org