Bangladesh, EIB plan €250m push for women’s health, stronger health services

Bangladesh and the European Investment Bank (EIB) have set out a shared ambition to direct €250 million under an existing EIB sovereign loan towards women’s health and stronger, more resilient health services.

The programme, known as the Women’s Health Initiative, proposes using funds approved in 2021 to support Bangladesh's Covid-19 immunisation programme, mid-term pandemic preparedness, and overall health system resilience to expand access to essential health services for approximately 47 million women and girls between 2027 and 2031.

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It would improve maternal and newborn care and cervical and breast cancer services, while strengthening primary healthcare, referral services, district hospitals and critical care to deliver reliable, high-quality care and respond more effectively to future emergencies, said a press release on Saturday.

“The health and well-being of women and girls are fundamental to Bangladesh’s future,” said Health Minister Sardar Md Sakhawat Hussain, announcing the government’s initiative.

He said this initiative reflects the government’s determination to build a stronger and more equitable health system – one that prioritises prevention and protects women throughout their lives.

“A commitment to ensuring that quality services reach communities closer to where they live across our country. Our partnership with the European Investment Bank and UNFPA will help us turn that ambition into lasting results for millions of people,” he said.

Dr Ziauddin Hyder, special adviser to the prime minister of Bangladesh on health, said, “Our vision is to shift health systems from treatment to prevention and health promotion, and this new investment will help drive that national vision forward.”

The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) supported the Government of Bangladesh in developing the programme, and is expected to provide technical expertise during implementation, added the release.