Accelerating Efforts on Reducing Maternal and Neonatal Deaths in Africa

This side event at the 77th World Health Assembly (WHA), co-hosted by Amref Health Africa and the Ministry of Health Kenya, aims to discuss solutions that would help to address the critical challenge of maternal and neonatal mortality in Africa. Despite global efforts, many countries are off track to meet the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) targets for reducing maternal and child mortality by 2030. In sub-Saharan Africa, particularly in Kenya, maternal mortality remains high, with a ratio of 355 deaths per 100,000 live births, and neonatal mortality rates also exceed SDG targets. The session will explore the effectiveness of past resolutions and interventions, examining key levers for success and discussing how maternal and neonatal health financing can be shaped to achieve SDG targets. Additionally, using Kenya as a case study, the session will delve into game-changing interventions and necessary investments to reduce maternal and neonatal deaths. The purpose of the session is to convene key stakeholders to engage in high-level discussions, commitments, and investments aimed at accelerating the reduction of maternal and neonatal deaths in Africa. Through this, the session seeks to generate commitment and investment, fostering political commitment and mobilizing resources from various stakeholders. Expected outcomes include enhanced political commitment to prioritize maternal and neonatal health on national agendas, increased investment in initiatives to improve outcomes, identification of institutional solutions through shared experiences, and the launch of a regional initiative to support African Member States in meeting SDG targets.