President Cyril Ramaphosa has called upon global leaders to confront the neglect that many communities and countries display toward the sexual and reproductive health and rights of women. Speaking in his capacity as the chair of the Global Leaders Network on women’s, children’s, and adolescents’ health at the UN General Assembly, President Ramaphosa emphasized the need for countries to invest in initiatives aimed at improving the health of women, children, and adolescents, citing the enduring social and economic benefits they bring.
The President highlighted the challenges faced by women, children, and adolescents in terms of health and well-being, pointing out that nearly 800 women die daily from preventable causes related to pregnancy and childbirth. Tragically, 95% of these deaths occur in low and middle-income countries, with the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbating health inequalities.
Ramaphosa drew attention to the devastating consequences of the pandemic, including over 10 million children losing a parent or caregiver to the virus, 67 million missing out on routine vaccines, and 80% experiencing disruptions in their education due to school closures.
Moreover, He stressed the far-reaching implications of childhood underdevelopment on the economies of nations and called upon global leaders to seize the opportunity presented by the 78th session of the UN General Assembly to accelerate actions aimed at achieving sustainable development goals related to women’s, children’s, and adolescent’s health and well-being.
In his statement, President Ramaphosa emphasized the significance of the Global Leaders Network as a platform for leaders to collaborate and advocate for the health of women, children, and adolescents. He urged heads of state to utilize their influence to mobilize their fellow leaders and drive policies, programs, and funding initiatives that would bring about improved outcomes in this area.
As part of this agenda, President Ramaphosa emphasized the need to challenge the disregard for the sexual and reproductive health and rights of women in many communities and countries, stressing the importance of open discussions and comprehensive addressing of these critical issues.