by Vasinatta Yama – EM TV, Port Moresby
Developing partners and non-governmental organisations are supporting the government’s implementation of the new Population Policy 2015-2024, which was launched today.
Marie Stopes PNG, a leading NGOs providing sexual and reproductive health care in PNG, urged for the policy not to be overstated.
The policy will allow the country to be able to manage the infrastructure and social challenges of our growing population. In support of the government’s policy, Marie Stopes Country Director Maarten Van De Reep says it will benefit the young and see many complete their education.
He said couples will plan proper financial futures and communities will also be able to plan their land. In 2014, the government launched the Responsible Sustainable Development strategy.
As part of the strategy, Marie Stopes will be involved in providing quality and voluntary family planning services to 20,000 clients in seven provinces of PNG. On record, most girls aged 13 and 14 are sexually active in PNG, and fall pregnant.
Marie Stopes ensures that young girls and mothers receive proper information on family planning, sexual reproductive health and diseases women face.
Now, with the establishment of Marie Stopes in seven provinces in PNG, more young people are coming forward to get information on sexually transmitted infections and other aspects of family planning and reproductive health.
This means more young people are being made aware of their sexual needs, enabling them to get on the right path to minimise STIs and unwanted pregnancies. Kariko said it is important women come to get proper advice, so it helps in minimising the maternal mortality rate in PNG.
With the launch of this policy, the government is confident it will manage population growth.
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