1. Existing African networks on abortion Mosotho Gabriel, Program Director Ipas Africa Alliance, for Women’s Reproductive Health and Right ICMA Meeting; March 11, 2009 Johannesburg

2. Overview Goal Purpose Key Regional Networks Government Ministries Regional Institutions Other Regional Entities Conclusion

3. Diverse Partnerships/Networks Women’s Health Networks Global Coalitions Ob-Gyns/ Midwives Associations Government Ministries RH Organizations Media Groups Research and Teaching Organizations Legal/Other Professional Groups Donors Ipas

4. Goal The Goal To improve women’s access to safe abortion services as part of comprehensive sexual and reproductive health care The Super Goal To contribute to the reduction of maternal mortality and morbidity

5. Purpose Our Purpose is….. To achieve significant improvement in regional and national commitment and actions in support of women’s access to safe abortion care and ability to exercise their reproductive rights

6. Regional Institutions Objectives for partnering with regional institutions is to encourage them to address safe abortion through various strategies. WHO GENEVA, WHO AFRO and WHO-in Country Offices IPPF Africa Region Collaborate to undertake strategic assessments and follow up action e.g. research, policy change, training; standards and Guidelines etc Capacity building through IPPF networks in the region

7. Regional Institutions Objectives for partnering with regional institutions is to encourage them to address safe abortion through various strategies. West African Health Organization (WAHO) Committee of Health Ministers of East Central and Southern Africa (ECSA) African Union (AU) Collaboration through workshops, training of providers, creating awareness and development of standards and guidelines

8. Key Regional Networks Objectives for partnering with regional networks is to encourage them advocate and act for safe abortion access including MA. These include: Health Associations e.g. FIGO and ICM counterparts in the region; Government Ministries particularly health sector; buy-in Women’s Lawyers e.g. FIDA for sensitization on issues Women’s Groups; e.g. get abortion on their agendas; particularly as part of treatment for rape Journalists; training and raise awareness to the abortion issue

9. Other Regional Entities These are links to engage with awareness-raising and Action. These include: African counterparts of the international Community of women Living with HIV/AIDS (ICW) Sexual violence organizations For these it is limited due to funding limitations.

10. Conclusion As this is another regional network, we shall be able to discuss: The role and objectives; And decide on: Structure and scope of work of the network With a view to developing tailored regional strategies