Namibia's maternal mortality drops by half – but challenges remain

Namibia’s maternal mortality rate (MMR) has improved significantly, dropping from 450 deaths per 100 000 live births in 2000 to 215 in 2020. While this marks progress, the World Health Organisation (WHO) says Namibia’s MMR remains three times higher than the average for middle-income countries.This year’s World Health Day, under the theme ‘Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures’, focuses on maternal and newborn health amid global funding cuts and humanitarian crises that threaten critical healthcare services.Globally, around 300 000 women die each year due to pregnancy or childbirth. More than two million babies die within their first month of life, and another two million are stillborn, translating to one preventable death every seven seconds. Most occur in low-income or conflict-affected countries.The WHO warns that four out of five countries are now off track to meet the 2030 global goal of reducing maternal deaths. Current funding shortfalls are delaying programmes and vital research focused on pregnant and breastfeeding women.Most maternal and newborn deaths occur during or shortly after childbirth. Complications from premature births are now the leading cause of death among children under five globally.Broader health issuesThis year’s focus also calls attention to broader health issues affecting mothers and newborns, such as mental health, malnutrition and rising non-communicable diseases. Long-term health and legal protections - like paid maternity leave and access to family planning - are essential.“It is not enough for women to merely survive childbirth – they should be able to enjoy healthy lives,” says Dr Pascale Allotey, WHO director for sexual and reproductive health. “Women and girls everywhere need access to healthcare providers who listen to their concerns and meet their needs. This, while ensuring they can plan their fertility, take ownership of their futures, and safeguard their health.”Climate change also poses growing risks for pregnant women and babies. Research links rising temperatures to stillbirths, premature births, high blood pressure, gestational diabetes and infant deaths.Despite the challenges, Namibia remains committed to reaching the UN Sustainable Development Goal of reducing maternal deaths to 70 per 100 000 live births by 2030. Currently, more than 96% of Namibian women attend at least one antenatal visit, and over 87% deliver their babies in healthcare facilities. – henriette@republikein.com.na

Namibia's maternal mortality drops by half – but challenges remain

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Namibian Sun 2025-05-01

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Namibia's maternal mortality drops by half – but challenges remain

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Namibian Sun 2025-05-01

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