A growing shortage of free contraceptives in Liberia is threatening the health and education of young women and girls. In rural areas like Bong County, health clinics and non-governmental organizations are running out of basic family planning supplies, such as contraceptive injections. As a result, many young women cannot afford private pharmacy prices and risk unintended pregnancies that force them to drop out of school.
The main causes of this shortage are supply delays from the Ministry of Health and cuts in international donor funding. Foreign aid has supported family planning in Liberia for many years. However, key donors like USAID have closed operations, and Sweden plans to close its embassy. Furthermore, a new health agreement between Liberia and the United States excludes funding for birth control and maternal health.
Civil society organizations warn that these funding gaps will lead to higher rates of unsafe abortions and maternal health risks. In addition, a public health bill remains stalled in the Liberian Senate. Advocates emphasize that immediate funding is needed to protect women across the nation.
Difficult words
- shortage — a situation when there is not enough of something
- contraceptive — something used to prevent a woman from becoming pregnantcontraceptives
- donor — a person or group that gives money to helpdonors
- exclude — to leave out or keep something from being includedexcludes
- stall — to stop moving forward or to be delayedstalled
- advocate — a person who publicly supports an idea or causeAdvocates
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Why is access to free family planning supplies important for young women's education?
- How can countries protect health services when foreign donor funding decreases?
- What actions could communities take to support young women during health supply shortages?
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