Maternal Dignity Project Forms to Combat Obstetric Fistula
News related to:Maternal Dignity Project · 1 min read
BEND, Ore., Oct. 14, 2026 /CourierPR/ -- Maternal Dignity Project, a nonprofit organization, has been formed through the merger of Worldwide Fistula Fund and Terrewode Women's Fund. The new entity aims to support African-led organizations in treating and preventing obstetric fistula across five countries: Burkina Faso, Ethiopia, Kenya, Niger, and Uganda.
Obstetric fistula, a childbirth injury resulting from a woman not receiving an emergency Cesarean section in time, affects an estimated 500,000 women worldwide. This condition is both preventable and treatable, yet many women live with it for years without knowing that repair is possible. The merged organization will focus on supporting partners such as ARENA Medical Center, founded by Dr. Itengre Ouedraogo as Burkina Faso's first dedicated fistula center, and the Let's End Fistula Initiative in Kenya, led by survivor and advocate Sarah Omega.
Bonnie Ruder, the executive director of Maternal Dignity Project, emphasized the urgency of addressing this issue.
The merged organization will expand its prevention efforts as more women give birth in health facilities. The causes of fistula are shifting, with a growing share of injuries linked to C-sections performed by providers who lack adequate training and resources. Several partners are currently researching this shift.
Maternal Dignity Project will continue to support organizations like TERREWODE in Uganda, which is known internationally for its work supporting women after surgery and building Uganda's only dedicated fistula hospital. The organization's commitment to backing leaders working in their own communities underscores its dedication to ending fistula for good.
By merging the resources and expertise of Worldwide Fistula Fund and Terrewode Women's Fund, Maternal Dignity Project aims to accelerate progress in preventing and treating obstetric fistula. The organization's focus on African-led initiatives highlights the importance of local knowledge and community involvement in addressing this global health issue.