Birth-related mortality is a major contributor to the burden of deaths worldwide, especially in low-income countries. In 2020, an estimated 4.5 million combined deaths occurred globally: 0.3 million maternal deaths, 2.3 million neonatal deaths, and 1.9 million stillbirths. Ten countries, including Tanzania, account for 60% of this burden.According to the most recent TDHS 2022, maternal deaths in Tanzania have dropped from 556 to 104 per 100,000 live births. This is remarkable progress! Tanzania is on track to achieve the global SDG target of reaching less than 70 deaths per 100,000 by 2030.
On 26th June 2025, the Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete Foundation (JMKF) proudly took part in the official launch of the 10 million Safer Births Initiative in Tanzania. The program, under the patronage of Her Majesty Queen Mary of Denmark, UNFPA, the United Nations sexual and reproductive health agency, and the International NGO Maternity Foundation, aims to support 10 million safer births across Sub-Saharan Africa by 2030.
The 10 Million Safer Births Initiative will be rolled out in Nigeria, Ethiopia, and Tanzania as its priority countries. In Tanzania, where maternal mortality remains a critical public health concern, this initiative complements ongoing national efforts to improve maternal and newborn health.
“And while we celebrate this progress being made in Tanzania, you will all agree with me that even 1 preventable maternal death is 1 too many! Globally proven initiatives, like this 10 Million Safer Births Initiative being launched today, will support Tanzania to ensure every birth is a safe birth” Said Mark Bryan Schreiner, Representation, UNFPA Tanzania.
The programme will strengthen frontline maternal care by equipping midwives and health workers with digital tools, including the Safe Delivery programme and Safe Delivery App, to improve quality care as well as emergency response and routine care in remote and underserved areas. The event, held at Protea Hotel in Dar es Salaam, marked the beginning of a national journey to improve maternal and newborn health outcomes.
As a partner, JMKF is deeply committed to supporting national efforts to improve maternal and newborn care. We believe that safe motherhood is not just a health priority, but a human right. Our work in this partnership includes, supporting training programs for midwives and frontline health workers, promoting the use of digital tools like the Safe Delivery App, advocating for better policies and stronger community support systems.
The launch brought together government officials, health professionals, midwives, and development partners, all united by one vision: a Tanzania where every mother and baby is safe during childbirth.
As we move forward, JMKF remains honoured to walk this journey hand in hand with partners like the UNFPA, the United Nations sexual and Reproductive Health Agency, and the International NGO Maternity Foundation, TAMA, the Ministry of Health, and many others working to make childbirth safer for all Tanzanians.
