Despite a global decline in maternal mortality, progress remains too slow to meet international goals. While the global maternal mortality ratio has dropped by 34%, from 339 to 223 deaths per 100,000 live births, the annual reduction rate of 2.1% falls far short of the 6.4% needed to reach the Sustainable Development Goal target of 70 deaths per 100,000 live births by 2030.
In South Sudan, the crisis is particularly severe, with the highest maternal mortality rate in the world at 1,223 deaths per 100,000 live births. This is compounded by extreme poverty, with over 80% of the rural population living in severe poverty and nearly 92% surviving on less than $3.10 per day. Additionally, only 44% of the population has access to nearby health facilities and primary care services
To address this crisis, our organization is implementing comprehensive health interventions in underserved areas of South Sudan. These include opening and equipping new health centers, delivering full maternal and child health services, treating patients annually, conducting community health outreach, and distributing mama kits and mosquito nets to expectant mothers.
These efforts are increasing access to quality care, improving the availability of essential medicines and equipment, and encouraging the use of healthcare services. alleviate is also enhancing health awareness, reducing preventable diseases like malaria, and ultimately lowering maternal and newborn mortality rates. Urgent and sustained action is essential to close the health gap and give mothers and children in South Sudan a better chance at survival and a healthier future.