Country Story

In rural parts of Kigoma Region, many pregnant women live far from health facilities that can provide emergency obstetric care. When labour starts at night or during the rainy season, reaching hospital in time can be very difficult.

Under a programme supporting reproductive, maternal, newborn and child health (RMNCH), maternity waiting homes were set up next to health centres. Women nearing their due date, especially those at higher risk, can stay there for a few days before giving birth, close to skilled health workers.

Community health workers and village leaders took part in educating families about the importance of delivering at a health facility, the danger signs in pregnancy, and the benefits of attending at least four antenatal visits. Men were also encouraged to accompany their partners to clinic.

Mama Neema, a mother of three, recalls: "With my first children I gave birth at home and had problems. This time I stayed at the waiting home, and when labour started the nurse was right next to me. My baby and I are both well."

Lessons learnt:

- Maternity waiting homes reduce delays in reaching emergency care.

- Educating families, including men, increases deliveries at health facilities.

- Partnership between village leaders and health facilities builds community trust.

This story shows how ECSA-HC Member States can strengthen family health programmes, including RMNCH, and share best practices across the region.