As Zambia joined the rest of the world in commemorating the International Day of the Midwife, United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) an organisation that Prides in Sexual Reproductive Health paid a visit to Kanyama Level One Hospital to appreciate the work of midwives and understand the challenges they face in delivering maternal healthcare services.
The visit focused on engaging frontline health workers and recognizing their contribution to safe motherhood and community health.
During the visit, UNFPA Country Representative Seth Broekman commended the dedication and resilience shown by both the employed and volunteer midwives at the health facility.
Mr. Broekman noted that midwives continue to play a critical role in reducing maternal and newborn deaths despite operating under difficult conditions.
Meanwhile Regional director Lydia Zigomo emphasized the need for continued support and investment in maternal healthcare services.
The midwives expressed gratitude for the visit, describing it as a morale booster and a sign that their efforts are being recognized.
However, they also highlighted a number of challenges affecting their work, including inadequate staffing levels, shortages of medical supplies, long working hours, and limited resources to adequately attend to the growing number of expectant mothers seeking healthcare services at the facility.
Speaking during the engagement, some of the volunteer midwives appealed for increased government and partner support to improve working conditions and strengthen maternal healthcare delivery.
“Despite the hardships, we remain committed to serving mothers and saving lives in the community,” they said.
By: Naomi Chisengela Mwanza
Lusaka
