Gambia launches national roadmap to reduce maternal mortality

The Gambian government has launched a national roadmap designed to accelerate the reduction of maternal mortality and improve survival rates for mothers and newborns. Vice President Mohammed B. S. Jallow presided over the launch at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Center, describing the initiative as a “declaration of moral resolve.”

The strategy utilizes a multisectoral approach, addressing not only medical gaps but also social and economic factors such as poverty, infrastructure, gender inequality, and limited access to quality care. The framework is structured around three pillars of action, five priority areas, and 15 targeted interventions intended to coordinate efforts between public institutions, development partners, and local communities.

While maternal mortality rates in The Gambia fell from 433 to 289 deaths per 100,000 live births between 2013 and 2020, officials emphasized that the new roadmap is essential to addressing remaining preventable deaths and ensuring the dignity and safety of women and children during childbirth.