Tegucigalpa, July 21, 2023. In an effort to strengthen the health of women, and adolescent girls in situations of vulnerability in Honduras, Dr. Heidi Ullmann, PAHO/OMS Regional Coordinator of the project "Improved Health of Women and Adolescent Girls in Situations of Vulnerability" funded by Global Affairs Canada, conducted a field visit from July 17 to 21 to assess the progress of interventions carried out in the regions of Intibucá and Santa Bárbara, as well as to identify challenges and risks in order to collaborate on finding joint solutions.
The visit commenced with meetings alongside the coordinating teams of various project initiatives, including technical teams from the PAHO/WHO, representatives from the Ministry of Health, and officials from the Government of Canada. During these meetings, the achievements attained to date were analyzed, emphasizing the significance of technical and financial cooperation, which has been fundamental in implementing interventions in communities in situations of vulnerability of Honduras. Moreover, the crucial role of the Ministry of Health in driving these processes forward was emphasized.
One of the most significant moments of the visit was learning about the pilot experience of the strategy "Familias Fuertes: Amor y Límites" in the municipality of Yamaranguila, where eleven families who had received training and implemented the strategy in their homes participated. This initiative, focused on parents with children aged 10 to 14, aims to strengthen family bonds and develop skills to reduce risk factors in adolescents, promoting a safe and healthy environment for their development.
Additionally, Dr. Ullmann and the team traveled to the Santa Bárbara Health Region to assess progress in reducing maternal mortality and the functioning of maternal mortality surveillance committees, as well as to learn from the experience of the Municipality of Atima. These efforts fall within the framework of the project to improve the health of Women and Adolescents and the National Plan for the Reduction of Maternal Mortality, coordinated by the Ministry of Health of Honduras, with technical support from PAHO/WHO.
"The commitment and dedication shown by this committee are truly inspiring. They have not only limited themselves to reporting but have gone beyond their duties by driving community mobilization to raise funds for the Maternal Home. This will ensure a safe and appropriate space for future mothers in the Municipality of Atima," stated Dr. Ullmann.
During the closing, the delegation visited the Maternal and Child Service and the Comprehensive Health Center in Trinidad, Santa Bárbara, where they closely observed the successful implementation of the prenatal teleconsultation pilot. This initiative has contributed to improving access and quality of care for pregnant women by detecting danger signs in a timely manner and contributing to the prevention of maternal mortality.
This visit represents a significant step towards a healthier and more promising future for women, girls, and adolescents in vulnerable situations in Honduras" expressed Dr. Heidi Ullmann, highlighting the importance of collaboration and joint effort in this initiative.
The project " Improved Health of Women and Adolescent Girls in Situations of Vulnerability “is a clear example of how international cooperation and the commitment of key actors can make a difference in the lives of the most vulnerable communities. We extend our gratitude for the support of Global Affairs Canada and the collaboration of all involved in this effort for a healthier future for Honduras.
