ANC-SHRH
Project Overview
Title: Accessible and Effective Antenatal Care (ANC) and Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights (SRHR) for Women and Girls in Rural Tanzania (or 'ANC-SRHR')
Duration: June 2024 - June 2027
Geographical Coverage: Karatu and Mbulu, Tanzania
Funding Partner: Global Affairs Canada (GAC)
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): 1 (No Poverty); 3 (Good Health and Well-Being); 4 (Quality Education); 5 (Gender Equality); 10 (Reduced Inequalities),
Ultimate Goal & Vision
To improve maternal and neonatal health outcomes in rural Tanzania by increasing access to comprehensive antenatal care (ANC), including routine ultrasound services, and promoting sexual and reproductive health rights (SRHR) for women and adolescent girls by scaling lessons learned in RUAA and ESWA.
Why It Matters
Tanzania has one of the highest maternal mortality rates in the world, with rural communities facing the greatest barriers to quality healthcare. In the project areas, only 21% of women receive ultrasound services during pregnancy, and just 25% of health facilities are equipped to provide them. Cultural beliefs and gender norms discourage ANC visits, with many men seeing maternal healthcare as solely a woman’s responsibility, limiting financial and emotional support. Female genital mutilation (FGM) remains a hidden but harmful practice, and a shortage of trained reproductive health workers further restricts access to essential services. Addressing these challenges is critical to improving maternal and neonatal health, reducing preventable deaths, and ensuring women and girls receive the care they need.
Key Objectives
01
Increase the Use of Comprehensive ANC, Including Routine Ultrasounds, Among Rural Women
02
Improve Awareness and Access to SHRH services for Women and Girls
03
Strengthen the integration of ANC and SRHR services within Tanzania’s health system.
04
Address Cultural and Gender-Related Barriers to Maternal Health
Key Activities
CPAR will respond to these challenges by:
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Deploying Ultrasound Technology: Providing six ultrasound units (two per district, plus mobile units).
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Training Healthcare Providers: Capacity-building programs for midwives and physicians on obstetric ultrasound.
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Community Awareness Campaigns: Radio programs, community dialogues, and engagement with traditional birth attendants (TBAs).
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Male Engagement Initiatives: Encouraging male involvement in maternal healthcare decisions.
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Strengthening Health Systems: Integrating ANC and SRHR services into Tanzania’s referral and health management system.
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Addressing Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and Harmful Practices: Research and advocacy to mitigate the impact of GBV and FGM.
Get Involved!
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Donate: Support CPAR in delivering lifesaving maternal healthcare services.
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Fundraise: Organize a fundraising event to support and spread awareness of our projects.
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Partner with Us: Collaborate on healthcare initiatives in Tanzania.
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Volunteer: Contribute your skills to make a difference.