Dakar-Senegal, 31 October 2024 - UNFPA and Norway reaffirmed their commitment to women and girls’ health, safety, and rights in the Sahel with the recent visit to the UNFPA West and Central Africa Regional Office of Norway’s Special Representative for the Sahel. This meeting culminated with the signing of an extension for the project “Promotion of Sexual Reproduction Health Rights & Fight Against GBV in Mali & Niger”, bringing an additional 20 million NOK ($1.8 million USD) to promoting sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR), tackling gender-based violence (GBV), and reducing female genital mutilation (FGM) in the two countries.
The project, launched in October 2023, aligns with Norway's new Sahel Strategy (2024–2030) to support stability, security, and sustainable development across the region. The project aims to expand access to education, health services, and protection for vulnerable populations. Norway’s additional funding will enable UNFPA to enhance essential services for women and girls facing heightened risks in conflict-affected and crisis-prone areas.
Speaking on the partnership, the Regional Director of UNFPA, Dr Sennen Hounton underscored the depth of Norway’s commitment to advancing women and girls’ rights and choices, stating, “Norway is a critical strategic partner for UNFPA, particularly in advancing the protection of women and girls against gender-based violence. Their support in West and Central Africa is invaluable and enables us to continue vital services for women, girls, and youth in challenging settings.”
Norway’s Chargée d'Affaires for Senegal and the Sahel countries, Ms. Kaia Bilton reiterated this sentiment, noting, “Our partnership with UNFPA has had a long-standing impact on promoting peace, security, and women’s rights, which are all high priorities for the Norwegian government. With our new embassy in Dakar, we are eager to continue supporting initiatives that bring transformative changes across the Sahel.”
The ongoing collaboration reflects Norway’s recognition of UNFPA’s vital role in championing women’s rights, promoting SRHR, and preventing GBV across West and Central Africa. Through dedicated funding and hands-on involvement, Norway has empowered UNFPA to expand its life-saving services and address pressing humanitarian needs in Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Chad, Mali, Niger, and Nigeria, where crises are particularly acute.
Ms. Kirsten Gislesen, (Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Norway), H.E. Knut Langeland, Ambassador, Special Representative for the Sahel, Norway, Dr Sennen Hounton, Regional Director UNFPA, Ms. Kaia Bilton, Chargée d’affaires, Royal Norwegian Embassy in Dakar, Fabrizia Falcone, Deputy Regional Director UNFPA.
