The First Lady of Zambia, Thandiwe Banda, has called for concerted efforts among stakeholders to reduce cases of maternal mortality and morbidity in her own country.
Updates
New Study: Legal Abortion in Nepal
August 12th, 2009
Following the legalization of abortion in Nepal in 2002, abortion services have been provided safely at both government and private facilities throughout the country, according to a new study released by Ipas.
HIV: The Biggest Threat to Pregnant Women
August 11th, 2009
JOHANNESBURG – HIV is the leading cause of maternal mortality in South Africa, according to a five year study of maternal mortality at one of the country's largest hospitals. Published in the August 2009 issue of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, the study found that the maternal mortality ratio was more than six times higher in HIV-positive women than in HIV-negative women, and nearly half of the overall deaths were from HIV related causes, such as tuberculosis and pneumonia.
Tanzania Triples Budget for Contraceptives
August 10th, 2009
According to a representative from IPPF, and as a result of advocacy activities by Tanzanian civil society, the Tanzania government has tripled is national budget line allocated for contraceptives to $7.65 million.
UNFPA Partners with Faith-Based Groups
August 6th, 2009
This week, UNFPA met with representatives of more than 40 international faith-based organizations to explore partnership potential during a two-day policy roundtable. UNFPA believe that this partnership is critical to reducing maternal deaths and ending violence against women worldwide.