Repositioning Family Planning in Rwanda How a taboo topic has became priority number one, a Rwanda success story

The story of the dramatic rise of family planning use in Rwanda and lessons learned

Rwanda's population, is estimated to 11 million, the most densely concentrated in the world…

Favorable Political Environment Favorable Political Environment Government Program Program 2 : Health And Population Increase Control Government will continue to ensure that Rwandans have good health. It will continue to sensitize them about risks related to high population growth while calling on them to heed to the family planning programs, reproductive health, fight against infectious diseases including malaria and HIV/AIDS. Some indicators: MMR: 200/100000, IMR: 30/1000, U5MR: 50/1000 Skilled birth attendant: 95%; CPR: 90%

The Results—Improved Health in Rwanda !! DHS Baseline 2005 EDPRS Target / Infant Mortality Under five mortality Children using LLITN16%65%60% Antenatal Care first visit 94%92%94%96% Skilled birth attendance13%4%28.2%35%62.2% Maternal Mortality Contraceptive Prevalence rate 10%25%27%51% Total Fertility Rate Utilization rate of Primary Health care service -- 70%75%86%

How did family planning become priority number one?

Multilevel evidence-based advocacy and policy efforts: family planning as issue of health and economic development

Increased access to quality services

full range (implants and IUDs) integrated at health centers permanent methods: vasectomy initiative Increased access to wide range of methods

Advocacy critical—multilevel and targeted district mayors, ministries, parliamentarians, military… Lessons Learned

Coordination is key, as is national implementation plan

Choice of methods, confidentiality and improved logistics systems are essential Lessons Learned

Motivating providers works, but needs to be sustainable

Current challenge: keeping the momentum going

Repositioning family planning in Rwanda— strong political commitment and leadership, mechanisms to foster advocacy, widespread availability of high-quality family planning services

How to become a CHAMPION Country? 1. A family utilizing Contraceptive methods champion 2. CHW champions 3. H C Providers champions 4. Districts Champions 5. Medias champions 6. Government champion 7. MPs Champions 8. President Champion

MURAKOZE Thank you very much !