Crisis situations have a major negative impact on women and girls around the globe. They bear the brunt of such situations due to their social, cultural, and economic standing in society. It is estimated that 35 million women and girls ages 15 to 49 globally require humanitarian assistance related to conflict situations. 

On 9th May 2022, UNFPA The Gambia commenced a training for stakeholders, social workers, government officials, and partners on the Minimum Initial Service Package (MISP) for Sexual and Reproductive Health in Crisis Situations.  The training on MISP for SRH in Crisis Situations was aimed at providing stakeholders working in any emergency response with the capacity to prevent SRH-related morbidity and mortality while protecting the rights of those affected to life and dignity. The training sought to enhance the coordination and effective implementation of emergency preparedness and response in crisis situations in The Gambia, particularly in addressing Sexual and Reproductive Health issues and Gender-Based Violence vulnerabilities of affected communities.

According to Isatou Bah, the Gender, Diversity, and Peace Building Focal Point for the Gambia Red Cross Society, the training will contribute towards improving on quality service delivery and the assistance of people and communities in crisis situations, particularly in addressing the needs and concerns of women and girls. 

Addressing the needs of affected communities during crisis situations is crucial to UNFPA’s mandate to deliver lifesaving sexual and reproductive health and Gender-Based Violence services. In The Gambia, the agency continues to partner with Government and other stakeholders to ensure that those affected by any crisis are urgently attended to.

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Media contact: Faith C. Ememodo – UNV Communications Associate ememodo@unfpa.org