The Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO) and Global Affairs Canada (GAC) have renewed their partnership through a CAD$15 million agreement. This is to strengthen sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) for women and adolescent girls resident in vulnerable situations in 6 countries in the American region.
The collaboration, spanning 4 years of ’26 – ’30, builds on a long-standing alliance between PAHO & Canada. The gaps that exist will be closed in Sexual and Reproductive Health & Rights by Strengthening Health Systems for Women & Adolescent Girls (C-Gaps) project. The partnerships will be sustained, supporting efforts in Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana, Honduras, & Peru.
Aligned with Canada’s Feminist International Assistance Policy and PAHO’s Strategic Plan (’26 – ’31), this initiative focuses on strengthening service delivery. Also, advancing women’s & girls’ leadership and agency, besides promoting enabling environments for SRHH.
Addressing discrimination
Countries in the region of the Americas have improved coverage of services with a focus on primary healthcare. However, barriers to access still persist. This is particularly amongst populations in situations of vulnerability. Addressing these gaps would be essential to meet the ’30 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs. Also ensuring access to sexual and reproductive health and rights for all women & girls.
A gender equality and health equity strategy acts as a guide. This initiative prioritises populations experiencing more than a single form of discrimination and structural exclusion. It will address key challenges such as maternal and neonatal mortality, adolescent pregnancy, gender-based violence and access to contraception. This is whilst strengthening primary healthcare and generating evidence to inform action in the region.
A long-standing strategic partnership
The renewed agreement builds on a strong & results-driven partnership between PAHO and Global Affairs Canada. Previous joint initiatives, such as the Improved Health of Women besides Adolescent Girls in Situations of Vulnerability Project, have strengthened health workforce capacity. This supports the development of national protocols and policies. Also empowered thousands of women, besides adolescent girls, in community decision-making.
