Burkina Faso – The village midwives, a key role in areas affected by armed conflicts - Enfants du monde Burkina Faso – The village midwives, a key role in areas affected by armed conflicts - Enfants du monde
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Burkina Faso – The village midwives, a key role in areas affected by armed conflicts

Village midwives play a key role in community health in Burkina Faso, especially when many health centers are closed due to attacks by armed groups. On January 13, 2025, the community midwives of Tenkodogo, in the Center-East of the country, received delivery kits thanks to the “Maternal and Neonatal Health” program that we are implementing on-site with our local partner ICP-BF. These kits will allow them to conduct deliveries in proper hygienic conditions in remote areas.

Heroines of maternal and neonatal health

In this region, particularly affected by insecurity, village midwives are often the first, and sometimes the only, ones to assist pregnant women. Dr. Morou Nikièma, Chief Medical Officer of the Tenkodogo health district, emphasized their importance: “These women, with their expertise and commitment, make access to quality care possible where health facilities are inaccessible. They save lives every day.”

Strengthening skills to reduce maternal mortality

24 traditional midwives have been trained through Enfants du Monde’s “Maternal and Neonatal Health” program to help women give birth safely. Our participatory approach involves midwives, nurses, and maternity managers to ensure sustainable and tailored support for their needs.

“Together, with targeted resources and strengthened support, we can have a significant impact on reducing maternal and neonatal mortality,” adds Nadia Yameogo, doctor and program officer at Enfants du Monde.

Delivery kits, a concrete response to reduce risks

Many women lose their lives due to complications or infections related to deliveries in non-sterile conditions. The delivery kits contain sterile instruments, personal protective equipment, and basic health products.

“These kits will enable midwives to continue working for the health of pregnant women and newborns, even in a context marked by numerous challenges,” says Mamadou Savadogo, head nurse at the CSPS of Yourga.

Enfants du Monde

My donation makes a difference

With 70 francs:

I’m giving a booklet on childbirth and emergency preparedness to 250 pregnant women and young mothers in Burkina Faso.

With 100 francs:

I’m giving 250 women in Burkina Faso the Mon bébé et moi (My baby and me) application to track their pregnancies and identify danger signs for themselves and their babies.

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