As countries around the world celebrate World Contraception Day, the Acting Minister of Health, Martha C. Morris, has emphasized the need for accessible contraception and education for women and girls. Speaking during an event organized by the Ministry of Health (MOH) and several partners in commemoration of World Contraception Day at a local hotel in Paynesville on Thursday, September 26, 2024, Minister Morris underscored the transformative power of family planning services, particularly for young people. “Contraception allows individuals to resume their education, career, and dreams, and to start a family when they are ready,” she stated, linking reproductive health to broader opportunities for women and girls. Highlighting the role of respect, confidentiality, and comprehensive information in family planning services, she stressed the need for a vision where every individual has access to accurate information and every girl has the opportunity to complete her education without interruption. Madam Morris urged society to ensure that “every child is born into a family ready to care for them,” framing family planning as both a health issue and a fundamental education issue. The Acting Minister called on the Liberians to rally around the cause, committing to being champions for contraception access and education. She also expressed hope that this generation would work to “keep our girls in school” and pave the way for a brighter, more empowered future for all. Madam Morris then lauded international partners and donors for their support in making these vital services affordable and accessible, noting that their contributions are not just providing contraceptives but are “funding the future” by empowering individuals and shaping stronger, healthier communities. At the same time, World Health Organization (WHO) Technical Officer for Maternal and Newborn Health, Clara Fischer, called for stronger commitment to safe contraception and sex education, emphasizing the critical importance of family planning, safe contraception, and comprehensive sex education. She highlighted the role of young people, particularly university and high school students, in carrying the knowledge they acquired into their communities and families. “This conversation can sometimes be uncomfortable, but it is necessary,” she stated, acknowledging the sensitive nature of sexual and reproductive health discussions. Madam Fischer noted that these topics affect everyone, and every family, recommending the need for all to know that it is crucial to speak openly about them. She reiterated the importance of family planning and contraception, urging everyone to take responsibility in ensuring that young women and girls stay in school and avoid the risks associated with unwanted pregnancies. Madam Fischer acknowledged the efforts of youth ambassadors, noting their role in advocating for sexual health awareness and called on the Government of Liberia to reinforce its commitment to safe and free contraception, implement comprehensive sex education in schools and communities, and eliminate the stigma surrounding these issues. As part of the global theme for World Contraception Day, she urged countries to imagine the emotional and physical toll of unwanted pregnancies, emphasizing the need for better support systems to prevent such situations. “Keeping our girls and boys in school, educating them about contraception and family planning – this is everyone’s business,” she stressed. This year World Contraception Day is being celebrated under the theme: Stop the Myth, Keep Our Girls in School, Use Family Planning. Source: LINA