Article By: Diana Motsu PC: Internet Zambia has reduced maternal deaths by 27%, from 257 in 2021 to 187 today. Zambia ‘s Ministry of Health Permanent Secretary Kennedy Lishimpi credits this progress to strategic measures targeting key barriers to maternal care.
In an interview with Gabz FM News at the Roche Africa press day in Capetown, Lishimpi explained that delays in care, such as recognizing when to seek help, transportation issues, and inadequate facilities, were addressed.
He noted that President Hakainde Hichilema prioritized maternal health, ensuring full funding for hospitals and clinics, recruiting 11,000 healthcare workers, and establishing maternity units in smaller health facilities.
Lishimpi added that Zambia also boosted its blood collection efforts, increasing from 60,000 to 140,000 units annually, further alluding that along with more women seeking early antenatal care and giving birth in institutions, these actions have significantly reduced maternal deaths. He also highlighted the introduction of waiting homes for rural mothers to ensure timely care.
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