The Resident Representative of UNFPA Côte d’Ivoire, Saidou Kaboré, was received in audience on March 18, 2026, by Kim Sangjun, Country Director of KOICA Office in Côte d’Ivoire.

At the center of their discussions were the achievements and future prospects of their long-standing tripartite partnership involving the Ministry of Health, Public Hygiene and Universal Health Coverage, KOICA, and UNFPA. This collaboration, launched in 2012, aims to eliminate obstetric fistula in Côte d’Ivoire.

This strategic alliance, which supports both the national health system and local communities, has benefited from more than $16 million in funding from KOICA between 2012 and 2024. As a result, 4,409 women have undergone life-changing surgical treatment, while 2,276 women have been successfully reintegrated into society.

In addition, the capacities of 2,562 midwives and nurses, as well as 154 specialized surgeons, have been strengthened. Prevention efforts have also taken root at the community level through the establishment of 70 “Schools for Husbands” and the active involvement of community leaders, religious figures, and 552 former patients who now serve as peer educators.

This meeting provided an opportunity to further strengthen collaboration between the two institutions in support of the Government of Côte d’Ivoire, particularly in implementing joint projects and initiatives aimed at accelerating the reduction of maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality in the country.