Takoradi: Midwives are calling on the government to intensify efforts to combat illegal mining activities, which they say are jeopardizing the country's water bodies and, by extension, the health of newborns. Mrs. Fredrica Hanson, Executive Leader of the International Conference of Midwives, highlighted the critical role water plays in childbirth and urged the authorities to protect these vital resources.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mrs. Hanson emphasized the need for moral and political determination to enforce laws against illegal mining. She noted that the health impacts are evident, with deformities in newborns and stillbirths being reported in many facilities. Her call to action was part of a presentation on "The State of Midwifery in Crisis Situation in Ghana: Challenges and Opportunities," held prior to the National Celebration of International Midwives Day in Takoradi, Western Region.
The presentation shed light on various challenges facing midwifery in Ghana, including a lack of skilled personnel, poor working conditions, and inadequate emergency preparedness. Mrs. Hanson encouraged midwives to adopt digital technologies, maintain a positive attitude, and mentor young talents.
A symposium themed "Midwives, Critical in Every Crisis" saw speakers discussing the security of health workers in conflict zones, professionalism, and work ethics. They advocated for adequate resources to enable midwives to provide essential services and aimed to make International Midwives Day an empowering and educational event.
Notable speakers at the symposium included Mrs. Eva Mensah, Colonel Mary Amofa Ampofo, Dr. Gifty Amugi, and Alhaji Haliq Adam. They voiced concerns over inadequate infrastructure, limited resources, and poor conditions of service, stressing that midwives are pivotal in reducing maternal mortality by providing essential maternal and newborn care.
The speakers called for expert supervision, continuous capacity building, mentorship programs, and institutional support for midwives. They emphasized the importance of empowering women and communities to take control of their health, particularly in crisis situations.
Mrs. Netta Forson Ackon, President of the Ghana Registered Midwives Association, highlighted the evolution of midwifery from traditional practices to a professional field. She advocated for enhanced midwifery care to ensure that childbirth is experienced with dignity, respect, and skilled support.
