Pathfinder International launches $39M USAID-funded OSRA program in Egypt

Updated 2/22/2023 2:57:00 AM

Arab Finance: Pathfinder International, in partnership with the Ministry of Health and Population, has launched its $39 million USAID-funded family planning and reproductive health program “OSRA” in Egypt, according to an emailed press release on February 22^nd.

The five-year program will reach out to nearly 10.6 million people in 625 communities across 10 governorates, initiating in Sharkia, Fayoum, Sohag, and Assiut, with plans to expand to Beheira, Dakahlia, Giza, Beni Suef, Menia, and Qena in the future.

The program targets enabling Egyptians’ access to high-quality family planning information, counseling, contraceptive methods, and services, while raising awareness of reproductive rights and health norms.

" Our well-respected track records, deep understanding of the local context, and extensive infrastructure throughout Egypt will enable us to start the program up rapidly, respond quickly to needs, and lead lasting sustainable change through OSRA," Mohamed Abou Nar, Chief of Party for the OSRA program, said.

“The US Government, through USAID, has invested over $435 million in reproductive health in Egypt over the last 30 years. These efforts, taken in close coordination with the Ministry of Health and Population, have lowered fertility rates and improved reproductive healthcare outcomes by providing Egyptian women with information on ways to recognize dangers to their health during pregnancy in time to seek medical care,” Daniel Rubinstein, Charge d'Affaires at the US Embassy in Cairo, said.

The USAID-funded OSRA program is carried out as per the health ministry’s “National Project for Family Development 2021-2023”.

It is also backed by the Ministry of Social Solidarity, the Ministry of Youth and Sports, the National Council for Women, the National Council for Childhood and Motherhood, the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Endowment, the Church, and the governors of the participating governorates.