In the rugged terrain of Bungudu local government area of Zamfara State in Northwest Nigeria, 32-year-old Shaawanatu Sani’s life has been marked by heart-wrenching tragedies and losses. A mother of eight, Shaawanatu’s foreboding experience serves as a poignant reference of the devastating impact of cultural beliefs and practices in the underserved communities. Gom Mirian who recently observed the practice writes that maternal and child mortality is alarming among the underserved communities.
Zamfara
Zamfara State, like many regions in Nigeria, grapples with alarmingly high maternal mortality rates, with approximately 1,100 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births.
These rates are exacerbated by factors such as inadequate antenatal care and low percentages of deliveries conducted by health professionals (22.3%) and in healthcare facilities(5%). The urgent need for interventions to address these issues is evident, as highlighted by the staggering statistics.
Shaawanatu
Shaawanatu’s tragic losses, stemming from her decision to opt for home births due to cultural norms, reflect the dangers faced by women in similar situations. Despite religiously attending antenatal care, she experienced the loss of four children due to complications that community birth attendants were ill-equipped to handle. Her story is just one of many in Zamfara State, where maternal mortality rates are alarmingly high.
However, amidst the bleak scenario, Shaawanatu’s narrative also carries a ray of hope. Collaborative efforts between the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the Zamfara State government have led to initiatives aimed at saving the lives of mothers and newborns in the State. These interventions focus on Behaviorial Change Communication advocacy, emphasizing maternal and newborn child health, and mobilizing communities for action.
Through these initiatives, mothers like Shaawanatu have gained knowledge and resources to make informed decisions about their health and that of their children. Access to vital services such as routine immunizations and vitamin A supplements has improved, leading to enhanced health outcomes and reduced mortality rates in the community.
UNICEF
Shaawanatu’s journey towards change began when she encountered a UNICEF-supported health worker who educated her on the risks of giving birth at home without proper medical support.
Her decision to make a different choice was fuelled by the desire to prevent further losses, as she expressed, “I was afraid at first, but seeing other women in my community benefiting from these interventions gave me the confidence to make a different choice,” Shaawanatu shared. “I didn’t want the lose any more children.” This shift in mindset, influenced by awareness and support, has been instrumental in reshaping the health-seeking behaviours of mothers in the community.
Essential Supplements
The provision of essential supplements like Vitamin A and routine immunizations has played a crucial role in reducing maternal and child mortality rates. Mothers like Fatima Basiru have also benefitted from these interventions, experiencing positive changes in their families’ health. “Thanks to the awareness sessions and support we have received, I now understand the importance of seeking medical care during pregnancy and childbirth.
“My children are healthier and stronger,” Fatima exclaimed. “I can’t imagine going through what Shaawanatu has experienced, and I’m grateful for the awareness campaigns that have changed our lives for the better.”
Furfuri Primary Healthcare Centre
In an interview with the in-Charge of the Furfuri primary Healthcare Centre, CHEW Sani Ahmed highlighted the past and present maternal mortality rates in the community.
“In the past, many women like Shaawanatu would go into labour without any professional medical assistance,” explained CHEW Sani, in an exclusive interview with AfricaHealth Report. “During antenatal care, you will see like over 120 women registered but delivery you may see like just 20 of the women. This lack of care often resulted in tragic complications, leading to high maternal mortality rates. However, with the interventions and advocacy efforts of organizations like UNICEF, we have seen a significant decline in these rates.”
Garba attributed this positive change to the increased availability of healthcare facilities, trained medical personnel, and community outreach programmes.
He emphasised, “UNICEF’s sustained efforts to empower communities with knowledge have encouraged more women to seek the appropriate medical attention during childbirth, preventing avoidable tragedies.”
As Shaawanatu moves forward on her journey, she remains determined to break the cycle of loss and raise awareness within her community. Inspired by the improvements she has witnessed, Shaawanatu actively participates in behavior change communication activities, sharing her personal story to demonstrate the importance of embracing modern healthcare practices. “I can count up to ten women I have talked to that have stopped home delivery to delivered in the health facility.”
Shaawanatu’s tragedy became a catalyst for change in Bungudu. Thanks to UNICEF among other partner’s interventions, awareness campaigns, and accessibility to quality healthcare, the community is now on a path towards reducing maternal mortality rates and ensuring the well-being of both mothers and newborns. Though the road ahead still holds challenges, Shaawanatu’s bravery and resilience provide hope for a brighter future, where cultural barriers are dismantled, and every child has a fair chance at life.
