On April 4, 2024, a pivotal meeting took place between His Excellency Mr. Shuji Noguchi, the Japanese Ambassador to Gabon, and Mr. Auguste Kpognon, the Resident Representative of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in Gabon. The primary objective of this discussion was to address resource mobilization to enhance the capabilities of midwives through the utilization of new medical technologies.

During this meeting, both parties emphasized the importance of technological innovation in improving maternal healthcare. By focusing on advanced technologies, such as portable ultrasound devices, they aim to ensure more accurate diagnostics and high-quality medical follow-ups for pregnant women. These state-of-the-art tools will help reduce the risks of complications during pregnancy and childbirth, thus improving health outcomes for mothers and their children.

Ambassador Noguchi reaffirmed

Japan's commitment to supporting Gabon's efforts in public health.

He highlighted the bilateral cooperation program "Grants for Grassroots Human Security Projects," which has already equipped several maternal and child health centers in Greater Libreville with modern medical devices.

For his part, Mr. Kpognon expressed UNFPA's gratitude for this fruitful collaboration. He emphasized

that these initiatives open up new promising perspectives for women and girls in Gabon. By strengthening midwives' capacities, not only will prenatal and postnatal care be enhanced, but it will also contribute to the empowerment of women in the medical field.

This meeting perfectly illustrates the synergy between Japan and UNFPA for the well-being of Gabonese populations. Through these joint efforts, Gabon is making strides toward better healthcare coverage and more effective medical care for its citizens, especially the most vulnerable. Japan's ongoing commitment, supported by concrete actions, underscores the importance of international cooperation in addressing public health challenges and building a better future for all.