Africa sees drop in maternal and newborn deaths

Over 60% of countries on the continent have reported that skilled health workers are present for more than four-fifths of births, up from less than a third in 2010

The maternal and newborn mortality rates in Africa have dropped since 2000, the World Health Organization (WHO) reported on Monday.  

Between 2000 and 2020, maternal deaths in the African region decreased by 40%, from 727 to 442 per 100,000 live births, according to the UN’s agency. However, the pace of this decline is still insufficient to achieve the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) target of fewer than 70 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births by 2030. 

According to the data, over 60% of countries in Africa now report that more than 80% of births are attended by skilled health workers, up from 28% in 2010. Despite this progress, significant gaps remain in rural and crisis-affected areas across the region. 

“Key barriers to progress include inadequate financing, weak governance, health workforce shortages and recurring shocks, such as disease outbreaks and conflicts, all of which disrupt maternal and child health services. In fragile and crisis-affected settings, women and children are particularly at risk,” the WHO stressed. 

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The region still accounts for 70% of the world’s recorded deaths related to pregnancy and childbirth, with an estimated 178,000 maternal deaths and 1 million newborn fatalities occurring annually in Africa. 

The agency identifies several factors contributing to maternal deaths, including severe bleeding, infections, high blood pressure during pregnancy, complications from delivery, and unsafe abortions. Newborn deaths are often caused by preterm birth, complications during delivery, and infections. Many of these deaths are preventable with timely interventions. 

The WHO emphasizes the need for accelerated efforts to improve maternal and newborn health in Africa.  

“In too many places, pregnancy and childbirth are still life-threatening events ... Every dollar invested in maternal and newborn health delivers major returns: healthier families, stronger societies and sustainable economic growth,” Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu, Acting WHO Regional Director for Africa said.  

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The Guardian cited a warning by UNISEF director Catherine Russell that global funding cuts to health services are endangering more pregnant women, particularly in vulnerable areas, by restricting access to essential care. She stressed the need for investment “in midwives, nurses and community health workers to ensure every mother and baby has a chance to survive and thrive.”