By Njah Maurine
Yaoundé, Cameroon – In a powerful initiative leading up to the International Safe Abortion Day on September 28, 2024, the Society of Gynaecologists and Obstetricians of Cameroon (SOGOC) has launched a campaign to raise awareness about the dangers of unsafe and clandestine abortions.
The campaign, starting September 16, 2014 aims to advocate for the provision of comprehensive abortion care services and a review of existing laws governing abortion in the country.
Unsafe abortion remains a significant public health issue in Cameroon, where restrictive laws and societal stigma often push women towards dangerous alternatives. According to SOGOC, thousands of women face severe health risks each year due to unsafe procedures, leading to complications, long-term health issues, and even death.
President of SOGOC, emphasized the urgency of the campaign. “Every woman deserves access to safe reproductive health services. We cannot ignore the reality that many women resort to unsafe methods when faced with unplanned pregnancies. Our goal is to ensure that comprehensive abortion care is available for those who need it,” she stated.
The campaign will include educational programs, community outreach, and partnerships with local health facilities to promote safe practices. SOGOC is also calling on the government to re-evaluate its laws on abortion to align with global health standards and human rights.
“By reviewing and reforming these laws, we can protect the health and lives of women across Cameroon, the president added. “It is time to prioritize women’s health and well-being, ensuring they have access to safe, legal, and compassionate care.”
As the campaign progresses, SOGOC encourages the public to participate in discussions surrounding reproductive health and to advocate for policy changes that support safe abortion services. With the International Safe Abortion Day on the horizon, SOGOC aims to galvanize support for these critical issues, highlighting that access to safe abortion is not just a health issue, but a matter of human rights.
