Maseru, Jan. 14 — The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) has reaffirmed that access to contraception remains a cornerstone of improving the health and well-being of families and communities in Lesotho.
Speaking in an interview with the Agency, the UNFPA Country Representative to Lesotho, Mr. John Kennedy Mosoti, said that contraception is not a privilege but a fundamental human right that should be accessible to everyone, regardless of where they live or their social status.
Mr. Mosoti explained that access to modern, voluntary family planning services plays a critical role in preventing unintended pregnancies, which often place women and girls at higher risk of health complications and socio-economic hardship.
“Contraception saves lives. It significantly reduces maternal and newborn deaths by allowing women to space and plan their pregnancies safely,” he said.
He further noted that family planning has far-reaching benefits beyond health, particularly for girls and young women.
According to Mr. Mosoti, access to contraception enables girls to stay in school, complete their education, and pursue economic opportunities, ultimately contributing to national development.
“When girls are empowered to make informed choices about their reproductive health, they are more likely to remain in school and build a better future for themselves and their communities,” he added.
Mr. Mosoti emphasized that contraception also strengthens families by empowering women and couples to decide freely and responsibly the number and spacing of their children.
He said that this leads to healthier families and more resilient communities.
Addressing challenges, the UNFPA representative acknowledged that stigma, misinformation and limited access especially in remote areas continue to hinder the uptake of family planning services in Lesotho.
He stressed the importance of providing accurate information and ensuring services are delivered without discrimination.
“Everyone in Lesotho deserves access to safe, voluntary and quality reproductive health services, free from stigma and coercion,” Mr. Mosoti said.
He highlighted that UNFPA works closely with the Government of Lesotho and various partners to strengthen the health system, train healthcare workers, and ensure that life-saving reproductive health services reach even the most remote and hard-to-reach communities.
Mr. Mosoti concluded by calling on communities, leaders and stakeholders to support efforts that promote reproductive rights and health, noting that investing in family planning is an investment in the country’s future.
“By ensuring universal access to contraception, we are protecting lives, advancing gender equality and accelerating sustainable development in Lesotho,” he said.
Ends/NT/tl
