Korede Abdullah in Lagos
The African region has made progress in reducing maternal mortality since 2000, with a 40% decline from 727 to 442 deaths per 100,000 live births between 2000 and 2023.
However, the region still accounts for 70% of global maternal deaths, with an estimated 178,000 mothers and 1 million newborns dying each year from preventable causes.
According to the Acting WHO Regional Director for Africa, Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu, “In too many places, pregnancy and childbirth are still life-threatening events. But it doesn’t have to be this way.”
The region needs a 12-fold increase in the annual reduction rate to reach the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) target of fewer than 70 deaths per 100,000 live births by 2030.
At the current rate, the region is projected to have nearly 350 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births by 2030, five times higher than the SDG target.
Stillbirth and neonatal mortality rates have also declined, but sub-Saharan Africa still accounts for 47% of stillbirths and 46% of global newborn deaths.
Nigeria Grim Situation
In Nigeria, alarming maternal mortality rates pose significant challenges for expectant mothers. Dr. Charles Adeyemo, a WHO consultant, stated, “Nigeria’s maternal mortality rate is a national emergency,” with approximately 58,000 maternal deaths each year jeopardizing the future of children and communities.
He emphasized that “every year, about 178,000 mothers and 1 million newborns in Africa die from preventable causes,” with Nigeria being a major contributor due to inadequate healthcare, a shortage of skilled birth attendants, and poor access to emergency care.
Dr. Adeyemo warned that the current reduction rate of 2.2% is insufficient, projecting nearly 350 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births by 2030—five times higher than the SDG target of fewer than 70 deaths.
“We must work collectively—government, healthcare providers, and communities—to implement effective solutions,” he urged.
He concluded, “We need to prioritize maternal health in our national agenda… Every woman deserves the right to safe childbirth, and every newborn deserves the chance to thrive. If we do not act now, we risk losing an entire generation.”
WHO’s Support
The World Health Organization (WHO) is supporting countries in implementing interventions to reduce maternal and newborn mortality, including developing acceleration plans, increasing access to skilled health personnel, and tackling health inequities.
WHO and partners aim to build a future where no woman dies while giving life, and every child gets the chance to grow and thrive.
Dr. Ihekweazu emphasized that “every dollar invested in maternal and newborn health delivers major returns: healthier families, stronger societies and sustainable economic growth.”
