Tanzania Cuts Maternal Deaths, Backs 200K for Midwives
Tanzania is strengthening support for midwives who now safely deliver 90% of births, contributing to a dramatic drop in maternal and infant deaths. The government pledged continued training and resources, including funding from a special marathon raising $200,000.
Families across Tanzania are celebrating safer childbirth as the country's renewed focus on midwives brings maternal and infant deaths to historic lows.
The government announced expanded support for the nation's midwives during International Day of the Midwife celebrations in Moshi this month. Dr. Seif Shekalaghe, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health, pledged to prioritize training, resources, and better working conditions for these essential healthcare workers.
"The happiness of any family depends on the good work done by midwives, especially when both mother and child safely leave the labor ward," Dr. Shekalaghe said. Under President Samia Suluhu Hassan's leadership, Tanzania has seen maternal and child mortality rates drop significantly in recent years.
Midwives now attend 90% of all births in Tanzania, making them a cornerstone of the country's healthcare system. The Tanzania Midwives Association (TAMA) reports that improved training and support have enabled these professionals to save more lives than ever before.
The government plans to expand educational opportunities at all levels to keep improving midwifery skills. New programs will focus on professional training nationwide, ensuring midwives stay current with best practices in obstetric care.
The Ripple Effect
The impact reaches far beyond delivery rooms. When mothers survive childbirth healthy and strong, entire families thrive. Children grow up with maternal care, communities maintain stability, and economic productivity increases.
TAMA President Dr. Beatrice Mwilike credits government cooperation for enabling midwives to achieve results that once seemed impossible. "Midwives are among the six key pillars in strengthening the health sector," she noted.
A special Mkunga Marathon organized during the celebrations raised approximately $200,000 specifically for midwife education. The funds will support training at different levels, strengthening professional capacity across the country.
Dr. Shekalaghe praised the initiative as a wise investment in the profession's future. "The additional knowledge they acquire will strengthen their capacity and improve efficiency and consistency in their areas of work," he said.
Every trained midwife means countless families who get to celebrate the safest, happiest moment of their lives together.
More Images
Based on reporting by AllAfrica - Health
This story was written by BrightWire based on verified news reports.
Spread the positivity!
Share this good news with someone who needs it
