Norway has allocated an additional contribution of approximately USD 3.2 million (Norwegian kroner 30 million) to support ongoing efforts to eliminate obstetric fistula and advance sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) in South Sudan.
This renewed funding, channeled through the United Nations Population Fund, builds on Norway’s longstanding partnership to address obstetric fistula—a devastating yet preventable childbirth injury that continues to affect thousands of women and girls.
Of the total contribution, NOK 10 million will support flexible funding under the Fourth UNFPA Country Programme, while NOK 20 million is specifically earmarked for targeted interventions including surgical treatment of fistula conditions, rehabilitation, and prevention.
According to UNFPA programme estimates, South Sudan faces a substantial backlog of 60,000 untreated obstetric fistula cases, reflecting severe gaps in access to emergency obstetric care. Globally, an estimated 2 to 3.5 million women live with the condition, with up to 100,000 new cases occurring each year.
“We hope this support will enable us to address the backlog of cases and accelerate our objective of zero fistula cases in South Sudan,” said H.E. Roar Haugsdal, Norwegian Ambassador to South Sudan. “Every woman who receives treatment, every life saved, brings us closer to a future where no woman suffers in silence.”
Between 2020 and 2025, Norway committed approximately USD 858 million (NOK 9.6 billion) to global SRHR initiatives, underscoring Norwegian leadership in advancing health and rights for women and girls worldwide.
In South Sudan, Norway’s support to the UNFPA Country Programme extends beyond treatment to include preventive measures such as addressing child marriage and teenage pregnancy, expanding access to contraceptives, and strengthening national coordination mechanisms, including the National Taskforce on Fistula Management.
Through this partnership, over 500 women and girls successfully underwent fistula repair surgery in 2025, alongside expanded efforts to prevent new cases.
UNFPA Country Representative a.i., Innocent Modisaotsile, said: “This support has helped us scale up lifesaving services for women and girls—translating those investments into saving lives and focusing on major challenges like obstetric fistula. Together, these investments are contributing to the dignity of women and girls in South Sudan."
Norway's continued focus on safeguarding the health and rights of women and girls in fragile and conflict-affected settings aligns with the Women, Peace, and Security agenda.