Ethiopia
Conflict broke out in Ethiopia’s Northern Region of Tigray in November 2022, as such there were devastating consequences on maternal and neonatal health. Hostilities ceased with a peace agreement during November 2024, however many issues still remain to this day. Many health professionals have now left the region, facilities were destroyed and many hundreds of thousands of population were displaced from areas bordering other regions. As such these internal displaced people (IDPs) still remain in large camps around the regional capital city of Mekele, unable to return home. During and since the conflict, Maternal Health Africa been there to help those people affected with different innovative programs which have evolved to service the particular need.
Yet, we recognise the need for sustained support and resources remain critical to ensure ongoing access to emergency obstetric care.
Action has therefore begun to address this challenge with an initial investment in a state-of-the-art maternal health centre in Mekelle, prioritising those displaced by the ongoing conflict and the more difficult cases that arise amongst those least able to afford treatment. Through the provision of this facility, Maternal Health Africa will ensure that we can continue to ensure positive health outcomes and create a centre of excellence for training.
Case study
In the remote district of Samre in Tigray, Ethiopia, a 39-year-old mother of eight faced a challenging moment in her pregnancy. She sought help at the local hospital when she experienced severe headaches and vision problems at 38 weeks pregnant. Her high blood pressure posed a serious threat to both her and her unborn child.
Maternal Health Africa provided vital support and immediate attention, easing her symptoms.
With gentle guidance from the doctor, the mother progressed through the final stages of her pregnancy. With the necessary support to prepare her cervix, she embarked on the journey of bringing new life into the world. And on a day filled with hope, she welcomed a healthy baby boy into her arms.
Leaving the hospital, she felt a sense of gratitude and strength. Her blood pressure was back to normal, and she was ready to face the future.
But the support didn’t end there.
Maternal Health Africa provided more than just medical care; they equipped her with knowledge for the future. Through compassionate counselling, the doctor discussed family planning options, and she chose to use Implanon for contraception. And, she received valuable education on recognising warning signs during pregnancy, empowering her to safeguard her health and that of her future children.
This story is a testament to the life changing impact of the initiatives we undertake at Maternal Health Africa. Thanks to your support we were able to offer hope, resilience, and the promise of a brighter tomorrow for this mother and her new-born child.
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