Elevating healthcare standards for mothers and their newborns in Malawi

Context

Malawi, one of the poorest countries in the world, faces severe underfunding in healthcare. Despite reducing maternal and newborn mortality by more than half since 1990, the country still sees 381 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births. This is twice the global average. Additionally, 19 out of every 1,000 infants die within their first month, which is 50 per cent more than in the rest of the world. In comparison, Germany records six maternal and three newborn deaths per 100,000 live births.

Currently, 91.4 per cent of women in Malawi deliver in hospitals, but the quality of maternal and newborn health services needs improvement to further reduce preventable deaths of mothers and babies.

Objective

The Malawi health system in the target districts has improved in its provision of high quality maternal and newborn health services.

Approach

The project works with the Ministry of Health in Malawi and local councils of the four target districts Dedza, Lilongwe, Mchinji, and Ntcheu to create the conditions in which doctors, nurses and midwives can provide good maternal and newborn care. In line with Malawi’s national health guidelines and strategic plans the project focuses on:

• Motivating and upskilling health workers: The project uses human resource management tools to support doctors, nurses, and midwives.
• Delivering high-quality health services: It implements quality standards, digital tools, and the use of real time data at point of care to improve patient outcomes.
• Building a resilient health system: The project upgrades infrastructure, water supply, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) as well as infection prevention and control practices.
• Supporting healthcare reforms: It assists in making central hospitals more autonomous and efficient.

Last update: September 2024