editor
The Tanzanian government has announced remarkable achievements in its efforts to reduce maternal and child mortality rates. Deputy Minister of Health, Dr. Godwin Mollel, informed Parliament in Dodoma that the mortality rate has decreased from 556 per 100,000 live births in 2016 to 104 in 2023.
This significant reduction surpasses the World Health Organization’s (WHO) target of reaching 225 deaths per 100,000 live births by 2025
Responding to a question from Special Seats MP Restituta Mbogo regarding the government’s strategies to reduce these deaths in the Katavi region, Dr. Mollel highlighted the comprehensive plans implemented, including improvements in healthcare services, medical equipment, and training for healthcare workers.
“We have surpassed our goals ahead of schedule, and statistics show a yearly decrease in deaths. In Katavi, deaths have reduced from 56 in 2020 to 15 in 2024,” Dr. Mollel stated. He added that the government has strengthened healthcare infrastructure and introduced a safe maternity system in various councils
ReadMore;Dodoma Hospital Innovates with Placenta Gas Production
President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s administration has provided additional funds to enhance health services, including purchasing delivery beds and mattresses. Health Minister Ummy Mwalimu recently announced the distribution of medical equipment, which is expected to further improve maternal health services
Furthermore, these achievements have attracted attention from other African nations, with officials from Nigeria visiting Tanzania to learn from its success. Dr. John Jingu, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, noted that the M-Mama system and safe maternity initiatives have significantly contributed to these outcomes
