UNFPA forges partnerships for SRH-friendly pharmacies

The UNFPA has partnered with a group of private organizations to help female pharmacists set up their own medicine shops and promote sexual and reproductive health (SRH).

This marks a “significant milestone,” the UN agency said on Sunday as it formalized its partnerships with Zaynax Health, Impact Hub Dhaka, Gram Unnayan Karma (GUK) and ToguMogu.

The collaborative effort aims to empower female pharmacists to set up their own pharmacies, enhancing the delivery of quality SRH information, counselling and referral services, particularly targeted at women and girls in urban areas, including slums in Bogra, Chapainawabganj and Bagerhat, read a statement.

In addition, an MoU was signed to improve SRH information and services for women and girls in the readymade garment (RMG) industry through advocacy, data gathering and capacity training of both RMG owners and buyers.

At the signing ceremony, representatives from the UNFPA and the private sector partners committed to reducing harmful practices by pharmacists and drug sellers while promoting SRH services within the permissible provisions.

The initiative strives to ensure the availability and accessibility of expert medical advice, encompassing proper drug prescriptions for SRH issues and family planning guidance within pharmacies.

The project has trained 400 pharmacists in sexual and reproductive health services, telemedicine and other related areas.

Beyond immediate impacts, the project aims to raise awareness of sexual and reproductive health and rights and inspire more women to venture into entrepreneurship, such as pharmacy businesses, thus contributing to community well-being.

A key aspect of the project is the investment in young women, empowering them to initiate their own pharmacy businesses.

By empowering them to overcome barriers, whether financial, social or skills-related, the UNFPA supports these aspiring entrepreneurs, fostering independence and success, reads the statement.

Kristine Blokhus, UNFPA representative, expressed the transformative potential of women like Armina, citing their role not only in providing essential family planning and maternal health services but also in challenging societal norms and stereotypes.

“Female pharmacists become symbols of successful entrepreneurship, community service and female empowerment.”