This is the story of two UN Volunteers in West and Central Africa who contribute to reproductive heath in Benin and Chad with United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA). Through their volunteering assignments, Lydie and Charlotte underscore the United Nations commitment to elevating health standards and promoting Sustainable Development Goal 3: Good health and well-being.
Lydie Nodjimadjim Mbaidje is a senior midwife and UN Volunteer serving with UNFPA In the heart of Logone, a province located in the south-west of Chad. Her contribution pivots around the crucial aspects of health education and awareness. She supervises midwives, and trains the local population on contraceptives and emergency neonatal obstetric care. These initiatives align with UNFPA's goals of eradicating preventable maternal deaths, fulfilling family planning needs, and eliminating gender-based violence and harmful practices.
In 2023, under Lydie's supervision, there were 27,849 prenatal consultations, 8,415 assisted deliveries, and 11,604 postnatal consultations. Additionally, family planning services had 7,416 new clients. Her work also enhanced the skills of 100 community health workers and leaders, boosting health outcomes at the community level. "Taking pride in my contribution to enhancing access to family planning is deeply meaningful to me and sharing my knowledge with fellow midwives to improve maternal and neonatal health is equally rewarding," says Lydie.
Meanwhile, Charlotte Quenum, a UN Volunteer with UNFPA in Benin, demonstrates a comparable commitment. As a Local Technical Assistant for Sub-Saharan Africa Women's Empowerment and Demographic Dividend (SWEDD) Project in the Atlantic/Littoral region, she improves health interventions and strengthens community involvement in several Cotonou neighborhoods.
Charlotte's efforts have been key in enhancing the socio-economic conditions and reproductive health rights of women and girls.
Charlotte Quenum, UN Volunteer (in blue UNV T-shirt and vest) with members of the Littoral CTDS delegation, alongside the beneficiaries of the 'Life skills and reproductive health' sub-project and their mentor at Espace Sûr d'Akpakpa 2 in the Cotonou commune. @ UNV, 2023.
Charlotte engages local authorities, which has helped come up with effective health interventions. This strategic approach aligns better with community needs, particularly for adolescents and young girls. Her focus on data management has expanded decision-making and planning for the SWEDD project.
Charlotte's volunteer journey highlights the power of collaboration in achieving sustainable development goals. Her contributions have not only advanced the well-being of women and girls in Benin but also served as an inspiration for future volunteers in the global health and empowerment sectors.
