United Nations Population Fund or UNFPA is calling for strong political commitment and investment in midwives to increase the number and enhance the quality and reach of their services.
Marking the International Midwifery Day on Tuesday, UNFPA Executive Director Babatunde Osotimeh in a statement thanks midwives for the life-saving work, pledging to stand in solidarity with them worldwide.
The official stresses the need to do more in reducing maternal mortality rate by training and providing more midwives.
The Executive Director says evidence shows that educated and regulated midwives to international standards can provide 87 percent of the essential care needed by women and their newborns.
Dr Babatunde expresses UNFPA’s continuous support to midwives this year and beyond as they strive for a healthy future for the present and future generations.