Media workshop on family planning – The seaside resort of Saly, 80 kilometres south of Dakar, is hosting a regional workshop on the planning and securing reproductive health products in the African media. The event is organized by the regional office of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in Dakar.

The five-day workshop, which brings together about 40 journalists from Senegal and the across the continent, is aimed at providing relevant and quality productions on securing of products of reproductive and maternal health and family planning in their respective countries aimed at influencing policies and behaviours, according to a document obtained by PANA.

UNFPA coordinates the 7 billion inhabitant global campaign, which takes place from 11 July to 31 October, as lead agency in the field of reproductive health, maternal health and family planning.

Among the expected results are better understanding of issues related to family planning, reproductive health products, maternal health in the media for more efficient communication vis-à-vis decision makers and populations which would also allow a more in-depth understanding of the mission and action of the UN agency.

Problems related to reproductive health - goals 4 and 5 of the MDGs (reduction of maternal and infant mortality) - are still acute in Africa.

Pana 20/09/2011