UNPF marks 7 billion initiative

By SHIRLYN BELDEN
THE United Nations Population Fund in Papua New Guinea is vocal and active on embracing maternal health and safe delivery in the country. 
To mark the seven billion global initiative by the UN, country co-ordinator David MacLachlan-Karr and team visited the post-natal and labour wards at the Port Moresby General Hospital last Friday.  
The UN team delivered to the hospital 150 bags of health care products including napkins, lotion, soap, baby cream, condoms and information booklets on family planning and safe motherhood.  
The visit was part of the UN’s global campaign on the seven billion initiative which calls for a global partnership in addressing population issues.
According to the UN, PNG is the third worst country after South Sudan and Afghanistan in terms of safe deliveries.
The UNFPA has been a partner in combating these issues by working closely with the Department of Health and other development partners in the country.
Sister-in-charge of the labour ward Sr Annette Semo thanked the UN team for the visit.
“I can say this is a good idea and initiative the UN is doing.
“Vital messages of maternal health and family planning are being delivered to the mothers and they can share with their partners and husbands through the gift packs and information booklets.
“The UN is a constant support in combating this problem and I commend the UN for its service in the country,” Semo said.
Young mother Kauna Drua, 17, from Chimbu was chosen by the UNFPA team as the country’s seven billion candidate representing the seven billion initiative of safe maternal and child health, family planning, girls’ education and expanded opportunities for women around the globe.
The 7th Billion day fell on Oct 31.