Luanda: The representative of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), Rinko Kinoshita, emphasized the necessity of improving access to family planning and sex education in Angola to address the country's rapid population growth, which currently stands at 36.6 million inhabitants. According to Angola Press News Agency, Kinoshita made these remarks during the release of demographic data by the National Statistics Institute (INE). This event followed her meeting with Americo Cuononoca, the first vice-president of the National Assembly (AN). She highlighted that the swift population increase calls for robust public policies focused on health, education, and social protection. The UNFPA emphasizes the need to ensure women and adolescents have access to essential information and services for making informed decisions about reproductive health and family planning, including the availability of contraceptives. Kinoshita stated that it is crucial for women and adolescents to be informed about family planning and contraceptive methods, such as condoms and implants. This knowledge empowers them to decide on the number and timing of their children, which in turn enhances their children's prospects for education, health, and protection. She pointed out that family planning should be seen not only as a health issue but also as a tool for human development. It plays a role in poverty reduction, improving maternal and child health indicators, and increasing educational and economic opportunities for families. Kinoshita mentioned that the UNFPA is collaborating with the Health Ministry to expand Youth-Friendly Services (YFS). These services are designed to offer counseling and specialized assistance related to sexual and reproductive health, early pregnancy prevention, and the promotion of healthy habits. Furthermore, the UNFPA supports the integration of comprehensive sex education in schools, in partnership with the Ministry of Education and with financial backing from the World Bank. This initiative aims to equip adole scents with crucial knowledge about sexual and reproductive health, early pregnancy prevention, and responsible decision-making. Additionally, the program is being extended to communities in collaboration with the Ministry of Social Action, Family and Women's Promotion (MASFAMU), and the Ministry of Youth and Sports. This effort seeks to reach young individuals who are not part of the formal education system. Kinoshita underscored that investing in education, access to information, and expanding reproductive health services are essential strategies for tackling the challenges posed by population growth and fostering sustainable and inclusive development in Angola. Source: Angola Press News Agency
