MINISTRY of Health Permanent Secretary for Donor Coordination George Sinyangwe says Zambia has made significant progress in reducing maternal and newborn deaths. Dr Sinyangwe has disclosed that the maternal mortality ratio has dropped from 252 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2018 to 187 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2024. Dr Sinyangwe further disclosed […]

MINISTRY of Health Permanent Secretary for Donor Coordination George Sinyangwe says Zambia has made significant progress in reducing maternal and newborn deaths.

Dr Sinyangwe has disclosed that the maternal mortality ratio has dropped from 252 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2018 to 187 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2024.

Dr Sinyangwe further disclosed that over the same period, neonatal mortality declined from 27 deaths per 1,000 live births to 17 deaths per 1,000 live births.

He said the progress demonstrates that it is possible when government and community members come together to implement evidence-based intervention, positive results are attainable.

Meanwhile, World Health Organisation Country Director, Clement Lusuba reaffirmed WHO’s commitment to support the Ministry of Health towards reducing and preventing neonatal mortality deaths.

Dr Lusuba represented by WHO Maternal, Newborn Child and Adolescent Health Officer, Patricia Bobo, disclosed that in 2025, the organisation partnered with Zambia Associates of Gynecologists and Obstetricians (ZAGO) to pilot WHO labour guide.