The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), the United Nations’ sexual and reproductive health agency, has highlighted the indispensable role of midwives in safeguarding millions of lives globally.

In a statement released to mark the International Day of the Midwife, the Executive Director of the UNFPA, Dr. Natalia Kanem, emphasised the crucial contributions of midwives, particularly in crisis situations and amidst the escalating challenges posed by climate change.

The statement underscored the unparalleled dedication of midwives who often operate in adverse conditions, including navigating through floodwaters or extreme heat to provide essential maternal and reproductive health care.

It praised midwives as the unsung heroes of community health services, ensuring safer births, and offering culturally sensitive care tailored to women’s needs.

The statement raised concerns over the exacerbating impact of climate change on maternal health, with rising temperatures posing additional risks such as premature births and miscarriages.

In the statement, Dr. Kanem emphasised the vital role of midwives in mitigating these challenges, citing their ability to deliver up to 90 percent of essential sexual and reproductive health services.

Despite their critical role, the statement lamented the global shortage of around a million midwives and the harsh working conditions that deter many from joining the profession.

The statement condemned gender discrimination within the field, which perpetuates low wages, limited opportunities for advancement, and instances of sexual harassment.

In the context of Ghana, Dr. Kanem lauded the efforts of midwives in providing reproductive health services to asylum seekers and refugees, even during crisis like the Akosombo Dam Spillage Flood.

The statement highlighted UNFPA’s investment in midwifery education and capacity building, including support for the Bachelor of Science degree programme at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology.

The statement acknowledged UNFPA’s collaboration with the Ministry of Health and other partners in reviewing strategic plans and strengthening midwifery associations and advancing the profession and advocating for reproductive health rights.

The statement called for renewed commitment to supporting and empowering midwives, especially in the face of worsening climate crisis. It urged collective action to ensure that every woman has access to skilled maternal care, emphasizing that the time to act is now.

It stressed the need rewrite the narrative surrounding midwifery, acknowledging their invaluable contributions and championing their cause on a global scale.