Inadequate financing, others hampering elimination of maternal mortality

The Regional Director for West and Central Africa of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), Dr Sennen Hounton, says the inability of African countries to eliminate maternal mortality is not due to a lack of political commitment but rather a combination of health system weaknesses, social inequalities and inadequate financing.

Maternal mortality He said despite the challenges, many African countries have made progress over the past two decades, citing Sierra Leone, which has transformed its maternal health outcomes.

Multi-sectoral approach Dr Hounton said UNFPA was advocating a shift from viewing maternal mortality solely as a health sector issue to recognising it as a broader development challenge requiring coordinated action across multiple sectors.