India, Nov. 13 -- Local capacities critical to making a difference must be strengthened

In Africa today women still die needlessly during childbirth. They also fall pregnant when they aren't ready, and don't want to get pregnant. And there are still many obstacles on their path to living full and fulfilled lives.

Sexual and reproductive health and rights are fundamental to people's health and survival, to economic development, and to the well-being of humanity. Several decades of research have shown that investment in sexual and reproductive health produces measurable benefits.

Governments have made major commitments to getting this right. But progress has been stymied because of weak political commitment, inadequate resources, persist...