A Global Maternal Health Challenge
Globally, over 700 women die every day from preventable causes related to pregnancy and childbirth, and a maternal death occurs nearly every two minutes (World Health Organization, 2025). The vast majority of these deaths—almost 95 percent—occur in low- and middle-income countries.
Tanzania is one country where the maternal mortality rate remains high. With limited resources, deteriorating facilities, and a severe shortage of health professionals, many vulnerable families—especially in rural communities—face significant barriers to accessing proper healthcare services. As a result, many pregnant women give birth without the support of a trained health worker.
According to the World Health Organization, key factors contributing to maternal deaths include weaknesses in health systems, limited access to education, and harmful gender norms that deprioritize the rights of women and girls—including their right to safe, quality, and affordable healthcare.
Bringing Essential Healthcare Closer to Communities
World Renew is working alongside partners in Tanzania to strengthen access to quality reproductive, maternal, newborn, and child health services in communities in the Geita region of northwestern Tanzania. One key approach is training and equipping Community Health Workers (CHWs) to bring essential care closer to where families live.
CHWs regularly visit expectant and new mothers, sharing practical guidance on health, hygiene, and nutrition. Through these visits, women are better equipped to care for themselves and their babies and to seek timely medical support when needed.
Community Health Worker Perpetua Gervas shares, “I am feeling so motivated and inspired to see the number of children and mothers’ lives that I have been saving in my village because of my frequent household visits and providing knowledge to those women…”
CHWs serve as front-line providers in World Renew’s health programs in Tanzania. Their work helps deliver effective and sustainable primary healthcare services to women and girls who might otherwise have little or no access to care. Through training and ongoing support, these workers are helping build stronger, healthier communities.
Looking Ahead with Hope
As communities in East Africa continue to navigate challenges such as extreme weather, strained health systems, and gender inequality, we give thanks for the dedication of community health workers and local partners who extend care and hope. We also pray for the protection and wellbeing of women and families, for improved access to healthcare, and for continued collaboration that brings lasting change to those most in need.
