The Clinton Health Access Initiative is set to implement a K4.3 billion project to improve maternal and newborn health services in Blantyre and other eight districts.
Dubbed Beginnings Fund, the initiative will run from 2026 to 2030 in the eight districts with high maternal and neonatal mortality rates.
Unpacking the initiative during a District Executive Committee meeting in Blantyre on Friday, Clinton Health Access Initiative representative Elimase Kamanga said Malawi continues to face high maternal and newborn deaths despite high rates of facility-based deliveries.
intervention. | Angel Chunda
She said although 97 percent of women deliver in health facilities, more than half of maternal deaths occur after caesarean section procedures.
Kamanga also highlighted gaps in the health system, noting that only 41 percent of districts meet the minimum requirement for maternity beds.
She said targeted health facilities will be equipped with ultrasound scanning machines to improve diagnosis and care for pregnant women.
“While only 41 percent of districts meet the minimum requirement for maternity beds, targeted facilities will receive ultrasound scanning equipment to improve access to diagnostic services for pregnant women,” said Kamanga.
She further said Limbe Health Centre in Blantyre will be upgraded to have a caesarean section and blood transfusion services to reduce pressure on Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital.
Blantyre district nursing and midwifery officer Modesta Mwagomba welcomed the intervention.
“This intervention will help in strengthening health services in the district and improve access to quality care for mothers and babies,” she said.
Non-Governmental Organisation Regulatory Authority district monitoring and analysis officer Patrick Aluzio asked for coordination to deliver the programme.
The Beginnings Fund is a consortium of donors working with 10 African governments to reduce maternal and neonatal deaths and achieve other health targets by 2030.
