NAIROBI, Nov. 12 (Xinhua) -- The ability of African countries to sustain inclusive growth, stability and cohesion hinges on robust investments in maternal health, medical experts said at a forum here on Monday.
Kenya hosted the Medical Women's International Association regional conference that was attended by political leaders, clinicians and grassroots advocates to discuss innovative ways to advance maternal health in Africa.
Joyce Banda, former president of Malawi, said at the forum that political goodwill is critical in tackling poverty, outdated customs and illiteracy that have fueled maternal deaths in Africa.
Recognizing the interconnectedness of gender equality, peace and security, education, health and strong leadership, it is imperative that governments give priority to a holistic approach in unleashing women's and girls'health and well-being from womb to tomb, said Banda.
The Nairobi forum whose theme was accelerating women's health agenda in line with UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the African Union (AU) agenda 2063 sought to galvanize the voices of African female clinicians, political leaders and scholars to ensure maternal health is at the heart of the continent's transformation agenda.
Banda noted that African women were grappling with a myriad health challenges that required bold policy and financing interventions to solve.
"African women struggle to live a dignified lifestyle due to constraints in accessing quality health care services. Investments in maternal health will be a critical enabler in realization of sustainable development," said Banda.
She noted that achieving gender parity in school enrollment, access to contraceptives, gainful employment and investments in safe deliveries is key to boost the maternal and children's health agenda in Africa.
Christina Sadia, chairperson of Kenya medical women association, said that African countries should embark on paradigm shift to ensure that maternal health is at the heart of socio-economic transformation agenda.
"More than ever before, our governments and other stakeholders need to show robust commitment in support of women's health," Sadia said, adding that improved health outcomes on the female gender has a positive impact on a country's economy and social fabric.
