A new maternity ward in Kibara: A step towards better healthcare for mothers and babies

–

On 6 December 2024, a special milestone was reached at St Mary's Hospital in Kibara, Tanzania: the opening of the new maternity ward. Thanks to the support of the Koroboi Foundation, this ward now has new beds, mattresses, mosquito nets and lockers. This may seem like a simple improvement, but its impact on mothers, babies, families and the whole community is huge. Good maternity care saves lives and ensures a healthier future.

The Crucial Role of Good Maternity Care

Modern science shows that good maternity care can drastically reduce maternal and newborn mortality rates. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), about 287,000 women a year to complications during pregnancy or childbirth. In sub-Saharan Africa, the risk to mothers and babies is highest. A well-equipped maternity unit with trained staff, safe delivery conditions and access to essential resources can make the difference between life and death.

A New Milestone for the Koroboi Foundation: Signing the MoU

Reduced maternal and infant mortality
With access to a safe and hygienic environment, as now at St Mary's, complications can be dealt with more quickly. Think bleeding, infections or preeclampsia, which could otherwise be fatal. The WHO estimates that 70% of maternal mortality can be prevented with timely and proper medical care.
A healthy start for babies
Newborns need extra care in the first hours and days after birth. Premature birth and infections are the biggest causes of death among babies. Clean beds, mosquito nets against malaria and hygienic conditions drastically reduce the risk of infections. This increases babies' chances of survival and health.
A better future for families
Families in which mothers and babies stay healthy have stronger foundations. Children who receive proper care in their first year of life are more likely to grow up healthy and develop well. According to UNICEF, a healthy start leads to higher school performance and better economic prospects in later life.

An Investment in the Community

Besides the direct benefits for mothers and babies, good maternity care has a wider impact on the whole community. Healthy mothers are better able to care for their families and remain economically active. In addition, a reliable healthcare facility, such as St. Mary hospital, boosts confidence in medical care, leading more women to choose a safe hospital birth rather than a risky home birth.

Thanks to the support of Koroboi Foundation, an important step has been taken in improving maternity care in Kibara. But there is still much work to be done. By continuing to invest in medical facilities, education and support for mothers, together we are building a healthier future for all.