Guinea-Bissau, a small West African nation, faces significant public health challenges, particularly concerning women’s health. High maternal mortality rates, widespread female genital mutilation (FGM), and limited access to reproductive healthcare remain pressing concerns. International aid plays a crucial role in improving the living conditions of Bissau-Guinean women.
General Context
Guinea-Bissau is one of the world’s poorest countries, with a fragile healthcare infrastructure and limited medical services, especially in rural areas. Women and children are the most vulnerable, suffering from high maternal and infant mortality rates. Harmful traditional practices such as FGM persist despite awareness campaigns and legal bans.
Female Genital Mutilation: A Continuing Practice
FGM remains deeply rooted in some communities in Guinea-Bissau. According to available data, about 52% of women aged 15 to 49 have undergone FGM, with higher prevalence among Muslim communities. In rural regions like Gabu, the rate reaches 96%. These procedures often lead to long-term health complications and are internationally recognized as human rights violations. Although criminalized since 2011, eradicating FGM remains a major challenge.
International Initiatives for Women’s Health
Several international organizations and NGOs are working in Guinea-Bissau to improve women’s health and combat harmful traditional practices.
The Role of UNFPA
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is particularly active in the country. In collaboration with local NGOs, UNFPA develops programs to improve reproductive health, fight against FGM, and promote access to maternity care. For instance, in December 2024, 24 rural communities in the Gabu region signed a declaration committing to ending FGM. This commitment was supported by community leaders, including imams, who play a key role in raising awareness and changing mindsets.
Mobile Clinics
To address the lack of healthcare infrastructure in remote areas, UNFPA deployed mobile clinics in 2024. These units provide free prenatal check-ups, ultrasounds, and consultations for pregnant women. In the Bafata region, for example, around 60 women were examined in a single day, receiving essential medical care that was previously inaccessible.
Condom Distribution
Preventing sexually transmitted infections is also a priority. Free condom dispensers have been installed across the capital, Bissau, to make them more accessible, especially for young people who often face judgment when purchasing them in pharmacies. This initiative aims to reduce the stigma associated with condom use and promote responsible sexual health.
Impact of International Aid Reductions
Unfortunately, efforts in Guinea-Bissau are threatened by cuts in international aid. On January 24, 2025, President Donald Trump decided to freeze U.S. development aid, leading to a 92% funding cut within weeks and the dismantling of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). This decision has had disastrous consequences for health programs in Africa, particularly those supporting women.
In Guinea-Bissau, these cuts jeopardize initiatives aimed at improving reproductive health, combating FGM, and providing essential healthcare services. Local organizations, already struggling with limited resources, are finding it increasingly difficult to sustain their programs without international financial support.
Voices from the Field
Beneficiaries of these healthcare programs emphasize their importance. Salimatu Baldé, nine months pregnant, was able to receive an ultrasound through a UNFPA mobile clinic. She expressed relief at not having to travel long distances for prenatal care. Similarly, young people like Malan Sambu, 23, rely on free condom dispensers for protection, highlighting the need for accessible preventive measures.
Conclusion
Women’s health in Guinea-Bissau is a critical issue that requires continued international attention. Programs led by organizations like UNFPA have proven effective in improving women’s lives and promoting positive health practices. However, reductions in international aid threaten these achievements.
Global leaders, particularly in Asia and Africa, must recognize the importance of supporting these programs to ensure a better future for Bissau-Guinean women and their communities. Sustained commitment to women’s health is not just a humanitarian imperative but also an investment in the nation’s development.
This article was written on March 18, 2025.
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