International Women's Day – March 8, 2009

Source: Colin Sperling/USAID

International Women’s Day started in 1911 and celebrates the many achievements and contributions of women around the world. It also brings attention to the many issues and challenges that remain in the effort to achieve gender equity. This year’s theme is “Women and Men United to End Violence Against Women and Girls. " Read more about USAID’s work to combat gender-based violence.

Read an interview with Gloria Steele, Acting Assistant Administrator, Global Health.

Women Making a Difference in Global Health

Launched on International Women’s Day 2008, USAID’s Women Making a Difference in Global Health series highlights women whose work through USAID-supported projects has had a positive impact on the health and lives of other women, families, and communities. Profiles follow of four powerful women who make strong contributions in the best ways they can, and USAID is proud to honor them.

In June 2007, 11 women from nine states came together to launch Mexicanas Positivas Frente a la VIDA (“Positive Mexican Women Facing Life”). The organization is the country’s first legally registered NGO of HIV-positive women. As a result of its legal status, Mexicanas Positivas Frente a la VIDA can receive funds and expand its nationwide advocacy efforts. Read more...

In September 2005, a group of 15 private-practice Filipino midwives acted in the spirit of bayanihan (Filipino value of community cooperation) and formed the United Midwives Association, Inc. (UMAI) to help each member improve her own private practice. UMAI became a formal association after its founding members completed a training program under the USAID Private Sector Mobilization for Family Health project. Read more...

Esther Nyokabi has lived in Njoro Division of Nakuru, Kenya, all of her life. Following one of her births, she suffered pelvic damage that affected her ability to walk. For seven years, she could only crawl and could rarely leave her home. Fortunately, she eventually received treatment for her condition. When Esther started walking again, she became active in her community. She is a member of Piave Women’s Group, which was founded in 2004 to help the growing number of children orphaned in Njoro due to HIV/AIDS. Read more... [PDF, 79KB]

“God gave you the power to make sure babies are healthy – and the key is in your hands!” Dr. Utami Roesli tells participants during USAID/Health Service Program (HSP) workshops on immediate breastfeeding. Attended by members of parliament, local government, hospital directors, professional associations, midwives, and NGOs, HSP has supported workshops in 18 districts, reaching more than 6,000 health professionals, to raise awareness on the importance of breastfeeding and motivate officials to enforce international regulations related to the marketing of breastmilk substitutes. Read more...

Please check back as USAID adds to the Women Making a Difference in Global Health series.