Health, Population & Nutrition

	We strive to provide the necessary information and tools for healthy habits and choices.

The Challenge

Madagascar faces many challenges in reaching its health goals. Health services are inadequate and not broadly available. Health personnel are unevenly distributed. Drug and medical supplies are prone to stock outs and are unavailable in some areas. Administration of the public health system is weak. The country’s resources and services are stretched due to a rapidly growing population and development is undermined by high rates of illiteracy, gender inequity, and economic disparity. The latest challenge is a recent unconstitutional transfer of government which further strains public services and threatens recently gained social and economic progress.

USAID Response

USAID's health program builds upon the last decade’s successes, such as the notable decline in child mortality, and continues to focus upon increasing the quality, availability, and demand for health services. This three-pronged approach works to reduce malnutrition; malaria; sexually transmitted infections, such as HIV/AIDS; and infant, child, and maternal illness and death.

Multisectoral collaboration with USAID’s food security program increases the efficacy and reach of health activities that help communities access and use potable water and adequate sanitation facilities as well as improve nutrition and food security for vulnerable families.

Priority Areas:

• Maternal and Child Health
    
• Malaria
   
• Water, Hygiene, and Sanitation
  
• HIV/AIDS and Sexually Transmitted Infections
   
• Family Planning and Reproductive Health