The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention and the African Union are stepping up efforts to eliminate preventable maternal and newborn deaths.

This will be done by strengthening health systems, improving domestic health financing and enhancing accountability across Africa.

Health officials have warned that exclusive breastfeeding rates remain low, particularly in the Khomas Region, where the exclusive breastfeeding rate is only 25%.

The low percentage is attributed to urban lifestyles and early return to work.

Maternity-related complications account for the largest share of blood usage in Namibia, underscoring the urgent need for more regular blood donors.

Despite the dedication of midwives and progress made over the years, maternal and neonatal mortality remain a serious challenge in the country.

This was revealed at the celebration of the International Day of the Midwife, which took place in Windhoek.

The Minister of Health and Social Services, Esperance Luvindao, has said that despite work ahead, Namibians have reasonable access to health care.

She made the remarks at the official opening of the new Onandjokwe Hospital Maternity Ward.

A medical expert has said the medical staff at the state hospital failed to monitor and follow up on a mother who underwent a caesarean, and this contributed to the removal of her womb.

Struggle stalwart, educator, and midwife Aino Nangula Tulimevava Nanghonda was buried at Onamukulo Cemetery in the Ohangwena Region, leaving behind a legacy of service and sacrifice.

Nanghonda died on 18 December at Oshakati Intermediate Hospital at the age of 83.

Prime Minister Elijah Ngurare reminded the investors that health is a human right and not a luxury commodity. 

Dr Ngurare, who was speaking at the inauguration of a private health facility, Kaisosi Medical Services, urged staff to structure their services in a manner that caters to everyone in Rundu. 

The Ministry of Health and Social Services (MoHSS) launched the National Strategy for Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn, Adolescent Health and Nutrition, alongside the Triennial Report on the Confidential Enquiry into Maternal Deaths, Stillbirths and Neonatal Deaths, marking a renewed commitment to improving health ou

Members of the Kunene Police Women's Network have engaged with expecting mothers at the Kazetjindire Angelika Muharukua Maternity Waiting Home in Opuwo, educating them about issues on birth registration and postpartum stress disorder that develops after birth, as well as adoption.