Vientiane: The Ministry of Health of Lao PDR, in collaboration with the Government of Luxembourg, UNFPA, UNICEF, and WHO, has launched Phase IV of the UN Joint Programme on Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn, Child and Adolescent Health (RMNCAH). The initiative, funded by Luxembourg, aims to bolster the Ministry’s RMNCAH Strategy and Action Plan for 2026-2030. This plan was officially introduced on September 16, 2026, with health leaders from 17 provinces and the capital signing a Commitment Charter to drive its implementation.
According to Lao News Agency, the Joint Programme has been instrumental in supporting health services and systems in Savannakhet, Bolikhamxay, and Bokeo since 2011. During this period, Lao PDR met the Sustainable Development Goal target for neonatal mortality, saw a significant reduction in under-5 mortality, and expanded skilled birth attendance and postnatal care. Maternal mortality also decreased by 82 percent between 2000 and 2023, as per United Nations estimates.
Thomas Lammar, Charg© d’Affaires of the Embassy of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg in Lao PDR, expressed pride in supporting the programme. He emphasized its focus on fundamental aspects of human development, such as safe childbirth, child survival, and adolescent access to essential health services and information.
Phase IV aims to further strengthen health services and systems while addressing ongoing challenges in service integration, quality of care, and equitable access. The programme will continue its implementation in Savannakhet, Bolikhamxay, and Bokeo, with additional technical support extended to Khammouane.
Mr. Bilal Aurang Zeb Durrani, Country Representative of UNICEF Lao PDR, speaking on behalf of UNFPA, UNICEF, and WHO, highlighted the shared purpose of supporting the Ministry and provincial health authorities to ensure reliable quality care for families. The programme’s success will be measured not only by immediate improvements but also by the sustainability of capable health workers and established standards for women, children, and adolescents.
