The Ayeyi Impact Foundation Takes Action to Combat Maternal and Infant Mortality in Nkwanta North District
In a bid to address the alarming rates of maternal and infant mortality in the Nkwanta North District of the Oti Region, the Ayeyi Impact Foundation, a Kpassa-based NGO, has joined forces with key stakeholders. A recent workshop held under the theme “Bridging the Gap of Maternal and Infant Death: A Collective Responsibility” brought together community leaders, healthcare professionals, and civic authorities to tackle the crisis head-on and devise practical solutions.
During the workshop, Midwifery Officer Ms. Marvellous Yaa Azuma presented the district’s health statistics, revealing a maternal mortality ratio of 92.74 per 100,000 live births in 2024, with three maternal deaths and three infant deaths recorded. She highlighted poor antenatal care attendance, self-medication practices, and women’s limited autonomy as primary factors contributing to these concerning outcomes. Ms. Azuma also expressed concern over the trend of women only seeking medical attention at health facilities during labor, often without any prior medical history, putting both themselves and their babies at risk of serious complications.
Addressing the social aspects of the issue, Mr. Nurideen Fuseini from the National Commission for Civic Education emphasized the impact of illiteracy as a significant barrier to accessing proper healthcare. Local chiefs and assembly members called for enhanced community mobilization efforts to raise awareness and promote positive health-seeking behaviors among residents. Recommendations stemming from the workshop included promoting male involvement in antenatal care, ensuring healthcare providers treat expectant mothers with respect and dignity, and fostering trust to encourage consistent healthcare-seeking practices.
CEO of the Ayeyi Impact Foundation, Mr. Tsekpokumah Richard, expressed gratitude to all participants and reiterated the organization’s unwavering commitment to collaborative efforts. He emphasized that the workshop marks a crucial milestone in the ongoing efforts to reduce maternal and infant mortality rates in the district and create healthier, more resilient communities. The Foundation urged all stakeholders to maintain the momentum through shared responsibility and targeted interventions.
The Ayeyi Impact Foundation’s initiative signals a significant step forward in the fight against maternal and infant mortality, demonstrating the power of collective action in effecting positive change. Through continued collaboration and community engagement, the foundation aims to pave the way for a brighter, healthier future for all residents of the Nkwanta North District.
