(KPL) A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on the Promotion of Reproductive Health and Sexual Rights through New Mechanisms was signed on May 12 in Vientiane. The agreement was made between the Department of Hygiene and Health Promotion and the Promotion of Family Health Association (PFHA).

The ceremony was attended by Dr. Phayvanh Keopaseuth, Deputy Minister of Health and Vice President of the Lao Women’s Union; Dr. Chansy Phimphachan, President of PFHA; Ms. Vanessa Hegarty, Australian Ambassador to Laos; and Dr. Souphon Sayavong, Director of PFHA.

Also in attendance were high-level representatives from the Ministry of Health—including deputy heads of departments and centers—as well as provincial health division leaders from Bokeo and Luang Namtha, officials from the Ministry of Justice, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Lao Women’s Union Central Committee, the Midwives Association, and representatives of civil society and international organizations. Health technicians from maternity centers and provincial departments of public health in the two provinces were also present.

The MOU is based on Agreement No. 2002, dated April 10, 2025, which affirms the acceptance and implementation of the Reproductive Health and Sexual Rights Promotion Project using new mechanisms. The project will be carried out in Bokeo and Luang Namtha provinces from 2025 to June 2028, with a total funding of 2,896,000 Australian dollars, supported by the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) through the International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF).

The MOU was formally signed by Dr. Phonepaseuth Sayamungkhun, Director of the Department of Hygiene and Health Promotion, and Dr. Souphon Sayavong, Director of PFHA. The signing was witnessed by the Deputy Minister of Health, the Australian Ambassador, officials from DFAT and IPPF, provincial health leaders, and other key stakeholders.

KPL