Lao PDR, International Partners Launch New Phase to Strengthen Maternal and Child Health Services

The Lao Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg and United Nations agencies (UNFPA, UNICEF, and WHO), has launched the fourth phase of a joint program aimed at strengthening maternal and child health services nationwide. This Joint Programme has been supporting services and health systems in Savannakhet, Bolikhamxay, and Bokeo provinces since 2011. During this period, Lao PDR achieved the Sustainable Development Goal target for neonatal mortality, while under-5 mortality fell significantly and skilled birth attendance and postnatal care expanded. According to United Nations estimates, maternal mortality also fell by 82 percent between 2000 and 2023. Phase IV will continue to strengthen services and health systems while addressing persistent challenges in service integration, quality of care, and equitable access. The program will continue to be implemented in Savannakhet, Bolikhamxay, and Bokeo, and will extend technical support to Khammouane province. "The launch of the new RMNCAH Strategy and the commitment made by every province gives this partnership a clear national direction. Luxembourg’s support will help ensure that the gains made over the past fifteen years are consolidated and extended to the families who depend on these services," said H.E. Dr. Vannasay Sattakoun, Vice-Minister of Health. "Luxembourg is proud to support this programme, allowing the UN to ‘Deliver as one’. It addresses some of the most fundamental dimensions of human development: ensuring that every mother can give birth safely, every child has the opportunity to survive and thrive, and every adolescent can access the services and information needed to lead a healthy life," said Thomas Lammar, Chargé d’Affaires of the Embassy of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg in Lao PDR. Speaking on behalf of UNFPA, UNICEF, and WHO, Mr Bilal Aurang Zeb Durrani, Country Representative of UNICEF Lao PDR, emphasized, "We come to this phase with one shared purpose: to support the Ministry and provincial health authorities to make quality care more reliable for families. Our measure of success is not only what improves during this programme, but what continues afterwards: capable health workers, routine supervision and standards that women, children and adolescents can rely on." As a one-party state, Laos relies heavily on government planning and international aid for its development strategies. While relations with China and Vietnam play a significant role in economic development and infrastructure investment, they also contribute to an increasing economic dependence on these major powers. This international cooperation in the health sector represents a crucial step towards achieving Laos's Sustainable Development Goals and is expected to contribute to the improvement of the country's healthcare infrastructure and the quality of life for its citizens. Source: KPL Laos News