International Day of the Midwife: Prioritizing Maternal and Newborn Health in South Sudan
Introduction
As South Sudan commemorates the International Day of the Midwife on May 5, midwives in the country are advocating for the government to prioritize maternal and newborn health. With some of the world’s worst maternal and newborn health outcomes, the role of midwives is crucial in addressing the challenges faced in healthcare.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Theme: Midwives Critical in Every Crisis
This year, the theme for the International Day of the Midwife is “Midwives Critical in Every Crisis,” highlighting the essential role midwives play in natural disasters, conflicts, and climate change. In a country like South Sudan, where healthcare infrastructure is often strained, midwives serve as frontline healthcare providers, especially for mothers and newborns.
Call for Government Action
Registered Midwife Amal Hellen Lam emphasized the importance of the South Sudan government prioritizing maternal and newborn health in both policy and practice. She urged for consistent investment in training, safety, and deployment of midwives to ensure the well-being of mothers and children in the country.
- Government’s duty to prioritize maternal and newborn health
- Investment in training, safety, and supplies for midwives
- Community trust and cooperation with midwives
Appeal for Support
Nyariak Mourwel, another registered midwife, echoed the call for more support from the government in strengthening the healthcare system in South Sudan. The need for increased investment in healthcare infrastructure and resources is essential to improve maternal and newborn health outcomes in the country.
- Importance of government support for healthcare system
- Investment in midwives and healthcare resources
Challenges in Maternal and Newborn Health
South Sudan faces significant challenges in maternal and newborn health, with high maternal mortality ratios and newborn mortality rates. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports alarming statistics, highlighting the urgent need for improved access to healthcare services for mothers and children in the country.
- High maternal mortality ratios and newborn mortality rates
- System-level gaps in healthcare infrastructure
- Lack of skilled nurses and midwives
Way Forward
Dr. Humphrey Karamagi, WHO Representative to South Sudan, emphasized the importance of addressing the persistent gaps in maternal and child health. He called for increased coverage of skilled healthcare workers, improved access to emergency obstetric and newborn care, and enhanced antenatal care services to reduce maternal and neonatal deaths in the country.
- Increased coverage of skilled healthcare workers
- Access to emergency obstetric and newborn care
- Enhanced antenatal care services
Conclusion
On the International Day of the Midwife, the spotlight is on the critical role midwives play in ensuring the health and well-being of mothers and newborns in South Sudan. With concerted efforts from the government, communities, and healthcare providers, it is possible to improve maternal and newborn health outcomes and build a healthier future for the country.
