The average Guinean woman will have six children during her lifetime, but due to the lack of obstetric care, many develop fistula, a painful injury that is especially traumatic due to the stigma associated with it. During obstructed labor, a baby's head may be pressed against his mother's pelvic bone, cutting off circulation to tissue in the area and literally creating a hole or "fistula" in her bladder or rectum. Aside from the physical pain, many also suffer psychological trauma, as they are often shunned by their families and communities due to the foul smell resulting from their injuries.
USAID has worked in partnership with the government of Mozambique, the World Wildlife Fund, and the Coca-Cola Company to protect the species and natural habitats of the of the most biodiverse freshwater lake on earth. Protecting Lake Niassa creates important economic opportunities for local fishing and tourism industries.
For 22 years, Sudan suffered one of the most devastating civil wars in Africa. The Government of Sudan, based in the north, fought against the Sudan People's Liberation Movement/Army, based in the south. The war left an estimated 2 million dead and some 4 million displaced.
Over 4,000 flood victims in Ghana benefited from USAID's recent voucher fair. The fair allowed flood victims to obtain the items they needed most while supporting the local economy.
The USAID-supported Horse Riding for Health program engages pony riders and motorcycle riders to transport blood tests, drugs, and supplies to Lesotho's remote mountain health clinics. The system allows people to receive HIV test results sooner, access life-saving drugs, and ensure an uninterrupted supply of medication.
