In a significant stride towards improving healthcare in Laos, the United States and the World Health Organization (WHO) have joined forces to launch the CONNECT Initiative. This multi-year partnership, unveiled in a ceremony attended by key stakeholders, including government officials and international agencies, aims to enhance maternal, child health, and nutrition in the country.

Led by the Ministry of Health and Ministry of Home Affairs, with support from WHO, the CONNECT Initiative seeks to improve access to essential healthcare services such as vaccination and maternal and child care. It emphasizes strengthening primary healthcare systems to achieve universal health coverage, fostering trust between healthcare providers and communities, enhancing local governance, and ensuring the sustainability of healthcare improvements.

Ministers Bounfeng Phoummalaysith and Thongchanh Manixay highlighted the collective responsibility towards healthcare and the importance of community governance in nurturing healthier communities.

US Chargée d’Affaires Michelle Y. Outlaw reiterated the United States' commitment to supporting Laos' development, emphasizing the pivotal role of strong governance in promoting health.

To address the needs of remote communities, USAID support will extend the reach of the initiative to additional provinces, aiming to improve service delivery and integrate maternal and child health services.

Timothy Armstrong, WHO Acting Representative to Laos, reaffirmed WHO's commitment to supporting equitable access to quality healthcare services.

The partnership underscores the longstanding collaboration between the United States and Laos in improving healthcare. With the expansion of the CONNECT Initiative, stakeholders are optimistic about advancing maternal and child health in Laos, marking a new chapter in healthcare development in the region.