Fidelity Bank, Ghana’s largest privately-owned indigenous bank, has partnered with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) to combat obstetric fistula in Ghana through the Partnership to End Fistula in Ghana (PEFIG) initiative.
Fidelity Bank has contributed an initial GHS 50,000 toward the seven-year partnership, which aims to prevent, treat, and reintegrate women affected by this condition.
Obstetric fistula, often caused by prolonged and obstructed labor, can lead to severe physical and social challenges for women, including incontinence, infection, and social stigma.
Despite being preventable and treatable, limited access to quality maternal healthcare means many Ghanaian women continue to suffer from this condition.
The partnership will focus on raising community awareness, providing medical and surgical interventions, supporting survivors’ economic and social reintegration, and training healthcare professionals.
Additionally, it will help coordinate resources for fistula repair, secure necessary logistics and supplies, and engage in advocacy to promote awareness.
Kwabena Boateng, Fidelity Bank’s Deputy Managing Director, emphasized the bank’s commitment to maternal and child health, noting that this partnership reflects the bank’s mission to support affected women in regaining their dignity and independence.
“Our commitment to this partnership with UNFPA to end obstetric fistula in Ghana reflects our deep-rooted belief in supporting maternal and child health.
This partnership addresses both the medical needs of women affected by obstetric fistula and the essential reintegration and empowerment aspects, helping them regain dignity and economic independence.
Our initial contribution of GHS 50,000 is only the beginning, as we are dedicated to supporting this cause in the long term.”
The bank’s support extends to observing the International Day to End Obstetric Fistula (IDEOF) and advocating for related policy support.
Boateng further underscored Fidelity Bank’s history of prioritizing maternal and child health, noting, “We’ve supported similar initiatives, such as the ongoing renovation of the Mother and Child Unit in Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi.
We are fully invested in supporting this cause long-term, knowing that there is no immediate end to this work. By focusing on prevention, we aim to reduce the need for treatment over time, creating a sustainable impact for the future.”
Dr. Wilfred Ochan, UNFPA Country Representative for Ghana, expressed gratitude for Fidelity Bank’s support: “On behalf of the Ghana Health Service and the National Fistula Task Force, I extend our heartfelt appreciation to Fidelity Bank for their generous support in our ongoing efforts to end obstetric fistula in Ghana.
This cheque signifies not only a financial commitment but a partnership that speaks volumes about your dedication to women’s health and well-being. Fidelity Bank has been very supportive since the formation of the partnership and has shown tremendous commitment to the cause.”
Additionally, UNFPA is collaborating with MOH/GHS and ECOWAS to renovate the Tamale Fistula Centre, with Fidelity Bank’s partnership playing a crucial role.
Fidelity Bank remains committed to supporting Ghanaian communities through impactful Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives, with this partnership marking one of many long-term investments in health, education, and economic empowerment.
