Midwives

They were recognised for the critical role they play in improving neonatal and maternal healthcare in PNG.

PNG has one of the highest maternal mortality ratios in the Asia Pacific region with an estimated 733 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births.

The Australian government, in partnership with the Government of PNG, has been supporting the development of PNG’s midwifery human resources through scholarships for midwives and supporting capacity building for health training institutions that provide midwifery training.

Today (May 5 2016) marks International Day of the Midwife with the theme “Midwives: health heroes for women, adolescent girls and newborns!” 

United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) executive director Dr. Babatunde Osotimehin in a statement said they’re committed to working with countries to strengthen midwifery skills and capacities.

Osotimehin said we must reward midwives who are working in challenging and hard-to-reach areas, where their services are most needed.

He said midwives are essential to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).