Read the French version of the blog here.
In parts of Côte d’Ivoire, stock-out rates for family planning products have fallen from 90 percent to 10 percent in just one year—a shift that signals what is possible when national policy is matched with strong decentralized execution.
This progress reflects the growing impact of the partnership between the Ministry of Health, Public Hygiene and Universal Health Coverage and partners, including VillageReach.
Earlier this year, 16 Regional Directorates of Health convened in Yamoussoukro for a three-day review of the Family Planning Supply Chain Strengthening (FPSCS) project. Launched in March 2025, the project is already demonstrating measurable gains in improving product availability at service delivery points, including in remote areas.
First-Year Results Point to Real Progress
The results from the first year are clear. Across supported regions, average stock-out rates dropped sharply by the end of 2025. In the Nawa region, the improvement was particularly striking: from 90 percent stock-outs to 10 percent in just twelve months.
This reduction translates into more consistent access to care. Fewer stock-outs mean fewer missed opportunities and more women able to choose and start the family planning method that fits their needs.
Technology is helping sustain these gains. A new application now automates monthly stock analyses and identifies redistribution opportunities in real time. Health teams no longer have to rely on estimates—they can use data to make faster, more accurate decisions. The result is a supply chain that is more responsive and better aligned with demand.
One Key Challenge Remains
The workshop also highlighted areas that require further attention. One product stands out: the intrauterine device (IUD), which continues to show a stock-out rate of 15 percent—well above the national target of 5 percent.
Analysis suggests this is not primarily a supply issue. Instead, it points to an operational gap: many health workers still require additional training and confidence in IUD insertion. Availability alone is not sufficient if providers are not fully equipped to deliver the service.
Participants of the three-day workshop reviewing the Family Planning Supply Chain Strengthening (FPSCS) project held in Yamoussoukro, Cote d’Ivoire. Photo credit: Aida Bamba
Strengthening the System for the Next Phase
Looking ahead, the next phase of the project will focus on strengthening the entire supply chain. Priorities include more systematic stock allocation, deeper collaboration with the National Program for Maternal and Child Health (PNSME), and the integration of hands-on clinical training.
Together, these efforts aim to translate strong policy into reliable, day-to-day access across the health system.
Building a More Reliable System for Women
By the close of the workshop, the direction was clear. The Ministry of Health and its partners are building a more reliable and responsive system—one that better serves women and families.
Each reduction in stock-outs, each faster redistribution and each trained provider brings Côte d’Ivoire closer to a simple but critical goal: ensuring that every woman can access the care she needs when she needs it.