Namibia’s Health Minister Concerned Over Maternal and Neonatal Deaths

Swakopmund: Namibia’s Minister of Health and Social Services, Dr. Kalumbi Shangula, has expressed concern over the increasing rates of maternal deaths, stillbirths, and neonatal deaths in the country. He addressed these issues during the opening of the National Seminar on Neonatal Care in Swakopmund, which aimed to bring together experts and practitioners to develop solutions for newborn health.

According to The Namibian Press Agency, Stillbirths and Neonatal Deaths (April 2018 to March 2021), commissioned by the Health Ministry, there were 145 maternal deaths, 1,066 stillbirths, and 1,069 neonatal deaths reported to the ministry. The Health Ministry’s Information System additionally recorded 4,406 stillbirths and 2,572 neonatal deaths.

Dr. Shangula highlighted that every pregnancy carries the risk of complications, emphasizing the importance of skilled assistance before, during, and after childbirth to reduce maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. The government’s Every Newborn Action Plan (ENAP) seeks to address and reduce these deaths, with specific targets to reduce maternal mortality from 385 to at least 200 per 100,000 live births by 2018 and to 50 by 2035.

While acknowledging progress, Shangula noted that these targets have not been fully met, and substantial work is required for Namibia to reach them by 2050. Erongo Region’s Health Director, Anna Jonas, also spoke on the complexity of providing neonatal care and the need for healthcare workers to be equipped with proper knowledge and skills.