Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan has called for increased investment in healthcare and stronger international partnerships to accelerate efforts to reduce preventable maternal and child deaths across Africa. President Samia, who serves as the African Union Champion for Maternal and Child Health, made the remarks in a speech delivered on her behalf by Tanzania’s Vice President Deogratius Ndejembi during the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York. She said Africa has the capacity to make significant progress in improving maternal and child health if governments sustain political commitment and direct resources towards accessible, people-centred healthcare systems.
Tanzania’s Progress in Maternal Healthcare
President Samia cited Tanzania’s progress as an example of what sustained investment in healthcare can achieve. She noted that the proportion of women giving birth in health facilities rose from 51 per cent in 2015 to 81 per cent in 2022, reflecting improved access to maternal healthcare services.
According to the speech delivered by Vice President Ndejembi, Tanzania also recorded a significant decline in maternal deaths during the period. The President said the country’s experience demonstrates that focused investment in practical healthcare programmes can deliver measurable improvements in the lives of women and children.
Africa’s ‘Three Zeros’ Goal
President Samia urged African countries to work towards achieving what she described as the “three zeros” in maternal and child health. The goals include eliminating preventable maternal and child deaths, ending home deliveries and ensuring that no child remains unvaccinated.
She said achieving these targets will require continued political leadership, sufficient funding and stronger cooperation between African governments and international partners. President Samia also appealed to the international community to support Africa’s efforts to strengthen healthcare systems and improve health outcomes for mothers and children.
Africa Accounts for Majority of Maternal Deaths
The call comes as Africa continues to carry a significant share of the global maternal mortality burden. The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) estimates that the continent accounts for nearly 70 per cent of maternal deaths worldwide and has said a large proportion of these deaths could be prevented through timely and effective interventions. President Samia’s remarks therefore placed greater emphasis on strengthening healthcare infrastructure, expanding access to services and ensuring that women and children receive essential care.
UN General Assembly Focuses on Global Challenges
The 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly is being held in New York from September 22 to 28, bringing together presidents, prime ministers and other senior government officials to discuss major global issues. The session is taking place under the theme “Restoring trust, managing transformation: a United Nations that delivers for all.”
The theme reflects growing international concerns over armed conflicts, inequality, climate-related emergencies, declining confidence in global institutions and rapid technological changes. Against this backdrop, President Samia’s call highlights the need for stronger global cooperation and sustained investment in healthcare as African countries work to reduce preventable deaths among mothers and children.
