In Mauritania, retired midwives have joined forces to launch a breast cancer awareness initiative, leveraging their experience to provide essential healthcare services to women in need. The initiative, launched on October 30, 2026, marks the beginning of a new chapter for the Union of Retired Midwives of Mauritania (USFRM), which aims to bring healthcare services closer to women in peripheral neighborhoods of Nouakchott. The program includes awareness-raising, survivor testimonials, and free clinical screenings.
The USFRM's initiative is part of the Octobre Rose campaign, a global movement to raise awareness about breast cancer. According to the President of the USFRM, Aminata Ba, the initiative seeks to address the challenges faced by women in accessing healthcare services, particularly in peripheral neighborhoods. Ba emphasized that retirement does not signify the end of their commitment to serving the community, highlighting the value of their experience in providing quality healthcare services.
The launch event was attended by representatives from the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), who welcomed the initiative as a crucial step towards improving reproductive health and reducing maternal mortality in Mauritania. The country's maternal mortality rate stands at 424 deaths per 100,000 live births, according to UNFPA. The organization has provided support to the USFRM, including the provision of equipment for the midwives' care cabinet.
The initiative focuses on three key priorities: informing and preventing, screening and acting in a timely manner, and accompanying women in their care journey. Dr. Aissata Bal, a gynecologist-obstetrician, highlighted the importance of early detection, citing that 70% of breast cancer cases in sub-Saharan Africa are diagnosed at an advanced stage. She encouraged women to be aware of their bodies and seek medical attention if they notice any unusual changes.
A survivor of breast cancer, Aicha Fall, shared her personal story, emphasizing the importance of early detection and treatment. Her testimony was met with emotional resonance, underscoring the human impact of the initiative. The event also featured a cultural performance by the Timtimol troupe, which called on women to prioritize their health and seek medical attention without hesitation.
The USFRM has set an ambitious target of screening 500 women and sensitizing 80% of the target population to breast cancer signs and symptoms. The organization plans to train 16 community relays to support the initiative, ensuring its sustainability and reach. The program is built on the legacy of Tokossel Sy, a pioneering Mauritanian midwife who championed early detection and screening.
The initiative has received widespread support, including from the Association of United Nations Personnel, which presented gifts to breast cancer survivors. As the program continues to unfold, it is expected to make a meaningful impact on the lives of women in Mauritania, promoting a culture of health awareness and preventive care.
Key points
- The USFRM's initiative aims to screen 500 women and sensitize 80% of the target population to breast cancer signs and symptoms.
- The program focuses on three key priorities: informing and preventing, screening and acting in a timely manner, and accompanying women in their care journey.
- The initiative seeks to address the challenges faced by women in accessing healthcare services, particularly in peripheral neighborhoods of Nouakchott.
