UN Says Midwife Support Key to Saving Mothers, Newborns in Afghanistan

UNFPA said on International Day of the Midwife that supporting midwives remains one of the most effective ways to save the lives of mothers and newborns in Afghanistan.

“It’s International Day of the Midwife! Investing in 1 million more midwives offers the single most effective way to save the lives of mothers and their newborns by extending access to antenatal care, safe childbirth and postnatal support,” the agency said.

UNFPA warned that cuts in international funding have placed maternal healthcare at serious risk, with about 6.3 million people — mostly women and girls — losing access to essential health services across the country.

Hundreds of health facilities, including mobile clinics in remote areas, have been forced to close due to funding shortages, sharply reducing access to life-saving care.

Afghanistan already faces one of the world’s highest maternal mortality rates, driven by limited access to skilled birth attendants and basic healthcare services.

Restrictions affecting women’s education and participation in the health sector have further reduced the number of trained midwives and female health workers available.

Reports, including coverage by CNN, show worsening conditions in hospitals, with overcrowding, shortages of supplies and rising newborn deaths.

Health experts warn that without sustained international support, Afghanistan’s fragile healthcare system could deteriorate further, putting millions of mothers and children at increased risk.

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