As Zambia joined the rest of the world in commemorating the International Day of the Midwife, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) has highlighted the urgent need to improve staffing levels and medical equipment at Kanyama Level One Hospital.
Speaking during a tour of the health facility, Lydia Zigomo described the shortage of midwives and inadequate medical equipment at the hospital as unacceptable, stressing the importance of strengthening maternal healthcare services in densely populated communities.
Ms. Zigomo noted that the hospital, which serves a catchment population of more than 190,000 people, currently operates with only four registered midwives — two working during the day and two at night.
She however praised volunteer midwives at the facility for their dedication and commitment to saving mothers’ lives despite the difficult working conditions.
Ms. Zigomo further stated that the UNFPA will work towards mobilizing support for essential drugs and medical equipment required at the hospital.
Meanwhile, Safe Motherhood Officer at the Ministry of Health, Karen Chizumi, said the growing population in Kanyama Constituency is putting pressure on service delivery at the hospital.
Dr. Chizumi explained that the facility was originally designed to serve a population of about 190-thousand people, but the number has now increased to nearly 500,000.
She said that despite efforts to expand infrastructure and increase the number of midwives, the hospital continues to face challenges such as limited space, inadequate staffing levels, and insufficient medical equipment.
Dr. Chizumi however commended volunteer midwives and health workers for their dedication to service delivery, noting that the hospital continues to record lower maternal mortality rates due to the commitment of staff.
And registered midwife Catherine Nkolola has also expressed concern over the shortage of midwives, warning that the staffing situation could negatively affect healthcare service delivery if urgent measures are not taken.
The concerns raised by health officials and the UNFPA reflect the growing pressure being placed on public health institutions in rapidly expanding communities, especially in areas with increasing demand for maternal and child healthcare services.
By Samuel Mbewe
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