How is India's Commitment to South-South Cooperation Recognized in Rwanda?
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Synopsis
India's commitment to South-South Cooperation was celebrated in Rwanda with the launch of an innovative project aimed at improving maternal health. The initiative promises to enhance midwifery education and services, showcasing the enduring partnership between India and Rwanda.
Key Takeaways
- India's commitment to South-South Cooperation is strong and enduring.
- The AIM for Change project aims to reduce maternal mortality in Rwanda.
- The initiative is supported by a USD 1 million grant from the India-UN Development Partnership Fund.
- Collaboration with UNFPA Rwanda is essential for project implementation.
- Rwanda has seen an 80% reduction in maternal mortality since 2000.
Kigali, May 21 (NationPress) Parvathaneni Harish, India's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, emphasized India's steadfast dedication to the principles of South-South Cooperation during the formal unveiling of the development initiative titled 'AIM for Change: Advancing Rwanda's Midwifery to Accelerate the Realization of Zero Preventable Maternal Deaths through South-South Cooperation' in Kigali, Rwanda, on Wednesday.
The Ambassador also highlighted the significance of national ownership and the crucial role of the India-UN Development Partnership Fund in promoting inclusive, sustainable, and locally driven development throughout the Global South.
Notable attendees included Claudette Irere, Rwanda's Minister of State for Education; Mridupawan Das, the High Commissioner of India to Rwanda; Ozonnia Ojielo, United Nations Resident Coordinator; Olugbemiga Adelakin, UNFPA Country Representative; and Menelas Nkeshimana, Representative of Rwanda's Minister of Health.
This two-year project, backed by the Indian Government through a USD 1 million grant from the India-UN Development Partnership Fund and executed by UNFPA Rwanda, aspires to enhance midwifery education, practice, and leadership to diminish maternal and newborn mortality in Rwanda,” the High Commission of India in Rwanda posted on X.
“Established in 2017 with a total commitment of USD 150 million, the India-UN Development Partnership Fund has supported 85 projects in 65 countries across the Global South. India remains strongly committed to the principles of South-South Cooperation and to promoting the Sustainable Development Goals through inclusive, country-led, and context-driven initiatives,” the post elaborated.
Expressing gratitude to the Government of India for its generous support and UNFPA Rwanda as the implementing agency, Minister Claudette Irere stated: “The midwives we support today are the protectors of tomorrow's mothers and newborns—laying the foundation for stronger families and healthier communities.”
During the project launch, Irere underscored midwifery as a cornerstone of Rwanda's development. She also noted an 80 percent reduction in maternal mortality in Rwanda since 2000 and emphasized the connection between maternal health, education, and human capital.
Earlier, Indian Ambassador Mridupawan Das highlighted the robust India-Rwanda partnership and New Delhi's commitment to enhancing maternal health globally.
The project aims to cut maternal and newborn mortality in Rwanda by fortifying midwifery education, improving quality maternal healthcare services, and promoting equitable access to skilled midwives through various strategies, including South-South Cooperation. The project’s primary outcome will be to boost the capacities of midwives in both quantity and quality to meet international standards and address maternal and newborn mortality.
Point of View
India's proactive engagement in South-South Cooperation through the AIM for Change project not only reinforces its commitment to global health initiatives but also strengthens its diplomatic ties with Rwanda. This collaboration serves as a model for effective international partnerships aimed at achieving sustainable development goals.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the AIM for Change project?
AIM for Change is a two-year initiative launched in Rwanda to enhance midwifery education and reduce maternal and newborn mortality, funded by a USD 1 million grant from the India-UN Development Partnership Fund.
How does South-South Cooperation benefit Rwanda?
South-South Cooperation facilitates knowledge sharing and resources between developing countries, helping Rwanda improve its healthcare systems and achieve better maternal health outcomes.
What are the expected outcomes of the project?
The project aims to increase the number and quality of skilled midwives in Rwanda, ultimately reducing maternal and newborn mortality in line with international standards.
Who are the key stakeholders in this initiative?
Key stakeholders include the Government of India, UNFPA Rwanda, the Indian High Commission in Rwanda, and various Rwandan governmental representatives.
What progress has Rwanda made in maternal health?
Since 2000, Rwanda has achieved an 80 percent reduction in maternal mortality, showcasing significant advancements in maternal health and healthcare access.
