President Samia Suluhu Hassan of Tanzania has emphasized the need for strengthened collective efforts to save the lives of mothers, newborns, children, and adolescents across Africa. She stressed that investment in quality healthcare is crucial for building healthy families and securing a better future for the continent. This call to action was made through Tanzania's Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, Ambassador Dr. Mahmoud Thabit Kombo, on behalf of President Samia.
Africa has made notable progress in reducing maternal and child mortality rates. However, Ambassador Kombo warned that these gains must be protected and expanded, especially amid growing resource constraints and rising demands on health systems. He made these remarks during a high-level discussion in New York, United States, on the sidelines of the 81st United Nations General Assembly. The discussion was hosted by Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama under the theme, “Accra Reforms: Completing the Cycle by Revitalising the International Development System.”
The high-level discussion saw the participation of various stakeholders, including governments, development partners, and the private sector. Ambassador Kombo highlighted that Africa is developing a Continental Plan for Saving the Lives of Mothers and Children. This plan aims to establish measurable targets and strengthen accountability mechanisms to improve the health of mothers, newborns, children, and adolescents. The plan is part of a broader effort to ensure that life-saving initiatives receive adequate resources and are implemented effectively.
Under the “Mother Africa Calls” campaign, Ambassador Kombo urged governments, development partners, and the private sector to continue working with African countries. He emphasized the need for adequate resources and effective implementation of life-saving initiatives. This campaign is part of President Samia's efforts to bolster investment in reproductive, maternal, and child healthcare. The campaign brings together public policy and private-sector accountability to strengthen maternal and child health.
Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama also underscored the need for countries in the Global South to strengthen domestic capacity. He emphasized the importance of improving health systems and increasing local production of essential products, including medicines. President Mahama commended President Samia for her leadership of the Mother Africa Initiative. He noted that the initiative is crucial for promoting maternal and child health across Africa.
The 81st United Nations General Assembly provided a platform for leaders to discuss pressing global issues, including healthcare. The discussion on maternal and child health highlighted the need for collective action to address these critical issues. President Samia's call for increased investment in quality healthcare resonated with leaders and stakeholders. They acknowledged the importance of protecting and expanding gains made in reducing maternal and child mortality rates.
The Continental Plan for Saving the Lives of Mothers and Children is a significant step towards improving healthcare outcomes in Africa. By establishing measurable targets and strengthening accountability mechanisms, African countries can work towards better health outcomes for mothers, newborns, children, and adolescents. President Samia's leadership on this issue has been commended by leaders, including Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama.
Key points
- President Samia Suluhu Hassan calls for increased investment in quality healthcare to save African mothers, newborns, and children.
- Africa has made progress in reducing maternal and child mortality but must protect and expand these gains amid growing resource constraints.
- The Continental Plan for Saving the Lives of Mothers and Children aims to establish measurable targets and strengthen accountability mechanisms to improve healthcare outcomes.
