BUJUMBURA, March 28th (ABP) – Family planning (FP) is a matter for couples and society. The active participation of men is therefore essential for informed and shared decision-making. These are the words of Dr Yolande Magonyagi, Reproductive Health Programme Officer at the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA).
Dr. Magonyagi began by pointing out that today, family planning is supported by numerous international organisations and governments, to guarantee couples and individuals the right to freely choose when and how many children they wish to have. It does not concern women alone, but involves the joint responsibility of couples and individuals in decisions relating to reproduction and parenthood.
FP also concerns men. “For example, shared responsibility for contraception, prevention of unwanted pregnancies, use of male contraceptives, support for maternal and child health, education and awareness-raising to reduce gender inequalities”, said Dr Yolande.
She also deplored the fact that the consequences of refusing or ignoring family planning include unwanted pregnancy, increased risk of maternal and infant mortality, increased poverty, family stress and conflict, abandonment or abuse of children, and demographic pressure.
In that respect, Yolande called on everyone to change their mentality, pointing out that family planning is a human right that can contribute to achieving other rights and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
She also pointed out that delays in arriving at the health centre, in recognising danger signs and deciding to consult the health services, and the time it takes to receive appropriate treatment at the health centre, result in many maternal deaths.
For that reason, Dr Magonyagi said that open and constructive dialogue on that issue is essential, in order to reflect on the potential challenges to reducing the mortality rate.
She stressed that it is imperative to redouble efforts to make family planning a reality for everyone in Burundi, in order to promote sexual and reproductive health, gender equality and the autonomy of women and young people.