Lack of blood banks in South Sudan’s hospitals has contributed to the high maternal mortality rate in the country, one of the highest in the world.
This was revealed by the 18 UN volunteers midwives gathered in Juba today to share experiences of maternal health issues in their areas of work.These midwives were placed all over South Sudan during the previous months in an effort to tackle maternal mortality rates.
The midwives are part of a joint programme with the UNFPA and the government of Australia, implemented by the ministry of health.
Nabatanzi Cissy, a Ugandan midwife with almost ten years of experience, was posted in Maridi hospital in May. She told SCR News that a pregnant mother almost lost her life because there was no blood to transfuse to her until two of her relatives arrived.
Zeenah Abdallah is a Kenyan midwife with almost 30 years of experience. She was posted in Aweil hospital last May. She said the major problem in Aweil is lack of blood to give to women during child birth.
Juba Teaching Hospital, the country’s biggest health facility, has no functioning blood bank either. The building is just under construction.
Dr. Makur Kariom, a gynaecologist and director of reproductive health, confirmed that lack of blood has indeed claimed the lives of many mothers during delivery.
Dr. Samson Baba, acting health undersecretary, said the government intends to upgrade health facilities and the construction of 15 antenatal centres is already under way.
He added that before starting a blood donors’ campaign the authorities need to build storing facilities.
Poverty, poor infrastructures and illiteracy contribute to maternal and infant mortality besides lack of skilled midwives and blood banks for transfusion.
UNFPA says the country needs more midwives and standard facilities to be able to cater for a population that is more than 8 million and growing.