Marie Stopes Papua New Guinea (MSPNG) and the Papua New Guinea Assembly of Disabled Persons (PNG ADP) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to improve access to sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services for persons with disabilities.
The signing ceremony brought together key leaders from both organizations, with Ms. Angelyn Famudi, Country Director of MSPNG, and Mr. Kaman Wasup, Treasurer of PNG ADP, officially establishing the partnership.
The partnership between the two organizations was formalized at the Marie Stopes PNG office in Port Moresby on the 19th of March 2025.
The three-year partnership will implement specialized training programs for healthcare providers to enhance disability-inclusive service delivery, while also conducting comprehensive awareness campaigns on sexual and reproductive health rights specifically designed for persons with disabilities.
A key component of the collaboration involves strengthening data collection systems to better identify and address healthcare gaps in service provision. The organizations will also engage in joint advocacy efforts with key stakeholders.
Ms. Famudi emphasized the significance of this collaboration, stating: “This is a critical area that is not focused on; therefore, needs to be prioritized as persons with disabilities have the same sexual and reproductive health rights (SRHS) and needs as their non-disabled peers.
“Providing information and accessible and quality sexual and reproductive health to all is important so no one is left behind on their right to informed decision and choice.”
Through the MoU, MSPNG will also work closely with Organizations for Persons with Disabilities (OPDs) in several provinces across PNG to ensure people with disabilities have access to sexual and reproductive health services and their needs are met,” she said.
Mr. Wasup highlighted the partnership’s potential impact, and said the work of Marie Stopes plays a significant role in the lives of individuals everywhere.
“For persons with disabilities, meaningful engagement and participation in Sexual and Reproductive Health are crucial. We are deeply grateful for this partnership, which will use our lived experience to support Marie Stopes in delivering inclusive services while aligning our shared goals,” he said.
This strategic partnership aligns with Papua New Guinea’s national health priorities and demonstrates both organizations’ strong commitment to advancing Gender Equality, Disability, and Social Inclusion principles.
Through MSPNG’s healthcare expertise with PNG ADP’s community knowledge and disability expertise, the partnership aims to create sustainable improvements in healthcare accessibility for persons with disabilities nationwide and ensure no one is left behind.
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