Health Indicators
Programs
Summary: Phase 1. Exploration phase to build an enabling environment
Côte d’Ivoire’s progress suggests the country is in Phase I, which focuses on exploration and early planning. The country has a policy for the free distribution of essential medicines such as iron and folic acid (IFA), supported by regulations that ensure the quality of both locally produced and imported medicines. A preliminary study conducted in April 2024 identified opportunities to expand MMS for pregnant women. Despite this, the program faces challenges, particularly in securing adequate financing for the free distribution initiative and in increasing the number of antenatal care (ANC) visits. Key lessons learned include the realization that the current Universal Health Coverage (UHC) does not fully address the treatment needs for anemia, highlighting the importance of integrating both curative and preventive care. There is a recognized need to expand UHC to include preventive measures such as MMS. The initiative is supported by a wide range of stakeholders, including government bodies, UNICEF, WHO, UNFPA, WFP, AfDB, AFD, Helen Keller International, Action Against Hunger, FHI360, IRC, Save the Children, universities, research institutes, and development partners like the World Bank, USAID, and the Islamic Development Bank. The next steps for Côte d’Ivoire include establishing a dedicated working group on MMS, building consensus among stakeholders for transitioning from IFA to MMS, and developing and executing a strategic roadmap for implementation.
Source: 2nd Africa Regional Meeting Report