Malawi on track to achieve health-related SDGs by 2030

Research conducted by Kamuzu University of Health Sciences (Kuhes) has found that Malawi is on the right path to achieving health-related Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030. The study, led by Professor Adamson Muula, aimed to measure progress towards these goals. The research team collected and analyzed data on various health indicators. The findings were presented in Blantyre City by Vincent Phiri, a lecturer in Biostatistics and Epidemiology at Kuhes. The results indicate that Malawi is making significant progress.

One of the key findings of the research is that 97 percent of women in Malawi gave birth in a health facility. Additionally, 93 to 96 percent of children received all three doses of the pentavalent vaccine by last year. These numbers indicate a significant improvement in maternal and child health. The research also found that the gap in health coverage between districts has narrowed significantly since 2020. The study's results suggest that Malawi's efforts to improve health services are paying off.

While the research found that Malawi is making progress, it also identified some areas for improvement. Phiri noted that mothers are often visiting health facilities late, which can negatively impact their health and the health of their children. He emphasized the need for advocacy to encourage mothers to visit facilities in good time and consistently. The research team highlighted the importance of addressing these gaps to ensure that Malawi achieves its health targets.

The Kuhes Countdown 2030 Research Team is working to measure progress towards health-related SDGs. The team's research aims to provide accurate and reliable data to inform health policy and decision-making. Professor Muula emphasized that the health data collected in Malawi is reliable and can be used anywhere. He stressed the importance of focusing on quality to ensure that progress is sustained.

By 2030, Malawi aims to reduce maternal deaths to less than 70 per 100,000 live births and end preventable deaths of newborns and under-5s. The research by Kuhes suggests that the country is on track to achieve these targets. The study's findings provide valuable insights into the progress that Malawi has made towards its health goals.

The research team's findings have important implications for health policy and practice in Malawi. The study highlights the need for continued investment in health services, particularly in areas such as maternal and child health. The team's recommendations for addressing gaps in health coverage and promoting early and consistent use of health facilities will be crucial in ensuring that Malawi achieves its health targets.

Overall, the research by Kuhes provides a positive assessment of Malawi's progress towards its health-related SDGs. The study's findings suggest that the country is making significant progress, but also highlight areas for improvement. With continued investment and effort, Malawi is likely to achieve its health targets and improve the health and well-being of its citizens.

Key points

• 97 percent of women in Malawi gave birth in a health facility
• 93 to 96 percent of children received all three doses of the pentavalent vaccine by last year
• Malawi aims to reduce maternal deaths to less than 70 per 100,000 live births by 2030