MSI launches campaign to boost reproductive health care
DAR ES SALAAM: THE Maria Stopes International-Tanzania (MSI) has launched a new initiative, the “For Every Stage of Woman” campaign, aimed at enhancing sexual and reproductive health services for women across Tanzania.
With approximately 14.9 million Tanzanian women aged 15 to 49—47.3 per cent of the population—in need of accessible and supportive reproductive health services, MSI is striving to address these needs through this extensive campaign.
Speaking at the campaign’s launch in Dar es Salaam recently, MSI Country Director Patrick Kinemo noted that women face unique health challenges at various stages of life, particularly after puberty, during motherhood and through menopause.
“We aim to reach every woman wherever she is to provide essential reproductive health services,” Mr Kinemo stated.
He added that in many communities, issues related to reproductive health are often neglected and there is limited education about menstruation, maternal health and menopause.
Mr Kinemo acknowledged the government’s efforts in establishing health facilities across Tanzania and noted that MSI’s campaign is designed to complement these initiatives, bringing specialised reproductive health care to women, even in remote areas.
Dr Living Nyaki, representing the Chief Medical Officer of Dar es Salaam, echoed these sentiments, emphasising the importance of recognising and addressing women’s reproductive health needs throughout all life stages.
ALSO READ: Take control of your breast health
“Every woman, irrespective of her location or stage in life, deserves private, supportive reproductive health services tailored to her unique challenges,” Dr Nyaki said.
He insisted that collaboration between the government and health organisations like MSI is crucial to ensuring that comprehensive care reaches as many women as possible.
Dr Nyaki added that while reproductive health challenges persist in communities, education and awareness are key.
By providing accurate information, communities will better understand the importance of reproductive health care and encourage more women to seek these services.
Dr Lerise Mashingo, MSI’s Business Development Manager and campaign coordinator, further elaborated on the campaign’s mission.
“Each stage of a woman’s life—puberty, motherhood and menopause—presents specific health challenges that require attention,” she explained.
Dr Mashingo said the year-long campaign will focus on public education, aiming to improve awareness and understanding of these stages and the necessary care.
The “For Every Stage of Woman” campaign underscores the critical need for reproductive health education and services, ensuring that women across Tanzania receive the attention and care they deserve at every phase of life.
